Outreach and Assurances: Centre Change Approach to CJP Protest Over NEET Paper Leak

New Delhi — Over the last 48 hours, the Centre has shifted gears in handling the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led agitation over the NEET paper leak. The response now includes policy announcements, political outreach, and a proposed new law — a sharp contrast to the government’s initial dismissive stance.

Key Announcements in 48 Hours

1. Fast-Track Courts Announced

On Thursday, PM Narendra Modi said on X that the government will set up fast-track courts for paper leak cases.

“Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth,” he posted.

2. Bill on Paper Leaks Cleared

At 11:52 pm Thursday, Modi released a video statement announcing a Bill for stringent action against paper leak accused.

On Friday, the Union Cabinet approved the proposed legislation.

3. Assurances to Protesters

Union Ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh held talks with Sonam Wangchuk, whose hunger strike became the face of the agitation. Wangchuk ended his fast late Thursday in their presence.

Nadda announced: 

• The government is “positive” about not registering cases against peaceful protesters at Jantar Mantar and those in the July 20 Parliament march. 
• The government is “positively considering” compensation for suicide victims of recent NEET paper leaks.

Change in Engagement Style

The Centre also agreed to the CJP’s demand for talks at a neutral venue. 

A meeting was held Friday at the Constitution Club of India with CJP spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, and ministers Nadda and Singh.

Officials said the government viewed Wangchuk’s non-partisan image and appeal among youth as key to easing tensions.

From Dismissal to Dialogue

This marks a big shift from earlier remarks by BJP leaders:

• May 23: BJP Kerala president Rajeev Chandrasekhar called the #CockroachParty an “influence operation” to destabilize the government.
• May 25: Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini questioned the protest’s longevity: “Cockroach ki ayu kitni hai?”
• June 23: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan called CJP the “B-team of terrorists” in a TV interview.

How the Protest Escalated

• June 20: CJP began indefinite protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding Pradhan’s resignation.
• June 28: Wangchuk and 6 AISA activists started a hunger strike.
• July 18: Police moved Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital, sparking anger.
• July 20: Massive march to Parliament saw lathi-charge and tear gas. That evening, Nadda held the first formal meeting with CJP at his residence. A minister then said “protests are over” — an assessment that proved wrong.

The police action on July 20 became a turning point, increasing crowds at Jantar Mantar and forcing the Centre to recalibrate.