What is India’s Gen Z ‘Cockroach’ movement challenging Modi?

Thousands of young protesters were camped on the streets of New Delhi on Thursday, defying new restrictions in the latest show of strength for a movement that has become one of the biggest challenges to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. The “Cockroach” protests began more than a month ago over leaks in some of the country’s most competitive entrance exams for medical colleges and government jobs. The movement has since expanded beyond exam grievances, drawing professionals and families while channeling broader frustration.Thursday’s demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, a designated protest site in New Delhi, followed overnight clashes in which police used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds, the second such confrontation this week. Supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party anti government slogans as they they attempt to march toward India’s Parliament, demanding the resignation of the education minister, in New Delhi, India, Monday, July 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup). On Monday, thousands of protesters had defied restrictions and marched toward Parliament before police broke up the demonstration with tear gas and batons. Story continues below advertisement Protest...