Mahua Moitra joins CJP protest, jibes Dharmendra Pradhan: ‘Don’t celebrate birthday with children’s blood’
Mahua Moitra Joins CJP Rally, Criticizes Pradhan Over Exam System Allegations
Mahua Moitra joins CJP protest jibes - On Friday, Trinamool Congress (TMC) representative Mahua Moitra joined the protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by Abhijeet Dipke, at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The gathering, which included students and youth activists, has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan since June 20, citing irregularities in the country’s examination framework.
Protesters' Demands
The demonstrators highlighted the NEET paper leak controversy and shortcomings in the Central Board of Secondary Education’s (CBSE) Online School Management (OSM) system, along with other alleged flaws in the educational sector. Over 18 students reportedly died by suicide, attributed to academic pressures and systemic failures.
“Today, the futures of more than three crore students and job seekers are being manipulated. Yet, no one is raising their voices for them,” Moitra stated to the crowd. “Meanwhile, those in power are indulging in birthday celebrations, oblivious to the struggles of the youth. What greater disgrace could there be?”
Modi's Birthday Message Sparks Debate
Moitra’s remarks drew attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday wishes for Pradhan on June 26, while the protest was in full swing. Modi praised Pradhan for his “commendable efforts” in education, which Moitra contrasted with the ongoing public outcry.
She emphasized that the movement required collective action, urging students to maintain their vigilance. “This struggle cannot be fought by politicians alone. It demands your unwavering participation,” she asserted.
“Our parents fought so that we could pursue careers in engineering, medicine, and build brighter futures. But in the past 12 to 14 years, even this aspiration has been undermined,” Moitra added, invoking the government’s accountability.
Non-Violent Resistance as Key to Victory
Moitra drew parallels between the current movement and the prolonged farmers’ protest, stressing the importance of persistence. “Like the farmers’ movement that lasted over a year and a half, this struggle will succeed if you remain steadfast,” she said.
She also referenced Mahatma Gandhi and the Chauri Chaura incident, a 1922 event where protesters burned a police station after a clash, leading to 22 officer deaths. This prompted Gandhi to reinstate non-violence as a core principle of the freedom movement.
“Let this movement continue. Stay peaceful. Remain committed to your cause,” Moitra urged the crowd, echoing Gandhi’s legacy.
CJP's Gratitude to Moitra
The CJP expressed appreciation for Moitra’s support on social media, noting her resilience against labels. “They will try to brand you as communists or anti-nationals, but your resolve cannot be shaken. Your only label is ‘Hindustani,’” the group wrote, highlighting her role in amplifying their cause.
Originally a satirical online movement, CJP gained traction after Chief Justice Surya Kant likened the "youth of India" to "cockroaches" during a court session. The group later evolved into a platform for demanding transparency in education reforms, with Moitra becoming one of the first prominent leaders to publicly endorse the campaign.
Call to Action
Sharing her speech on X, Moitra concluded with a powerful quote from Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s poem *Hum Dekhenge*: “It is certain that we too shall witness the day that has been promised... We will surely live to see it.” Her message underscored the hope and determination of the protesters, urging the public not to let their children’s sacrifices be used to decorate political celebrations.
Moitra’s viral address emphasized that the government’s actions, such as linking Pradhan’s birthday to the suffering of students, were a stark reminder of the stakes involved. Her words resonated strongly with the crowd, reaffirming the unity and purpose behind the protest.