Author: space4knews

Following the escalation of protests over the leakage of India’s medical entrance exam question paper, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the establishment of fast-track courts to swiftly punish those responsible. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi described Modi’s remarks as ‘pathetic’ and called for the dismissal of the Education Minister along with action against those involved in violence against students. Led by the KCKJ Party, protesters have demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and compensation for the affected families. Kathmandu, August 24.

As protests intensified across India demanding action against those involved in the medical entrance exam paper leak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his first public response. On Thursday midnight, Modi released a video message on social media. This was among his earliest responses to the youth-led protests spearheaded by the KCKJ Party. In his message, he addressed the protesters as ‘friends,’ emphasizing, ‘Nothing is more important than the future and welfare of our youth.’

The controversy surrounding illegal activities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) has sparked intense protests in New Delhi. Security forces have taken strict measures to control the demonstrations. Protesters have been holding sit-ins for three days on Parliament Street, with many occupying the main road that connects New Delhi’s central business district. Facing mounting pressure, Modi declared, ‘We have decided to establish fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for anyone involved in the question paper leak. Those who jeopardize our youth’s future will not be spared.’

The movement is organized under the leadership of the KCKJ Party, founded and led by Abhijit Dipke. Social activist Sonam Wangchuk supported the protests with a hunger strike, breaking his fast on its 26th day last night. Initially begun as a satirical online campaign against a removed secretary in May, the KCKJ Party’s campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement demanding reforms to the examination system and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. On Monday, an unprecedented crowd marched toward Parliament in New Delhi, with thousands taking to the streets.

Following the government’s failure to meet protesters’ demands, widespread criticism has emerged against its suppression tactics. The protesters are calling for the immediate resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, withdrawal of cases filed against peaceful demonstrators, and financial compensation of 10 million Indian rupees each to the families of at least 12 students who committed suicide due to exam-related distress. While Modi has yet to remove the education minister, he has dismissed a ministry secretary. The KCKJ Party criticized Modi’s video message for avoiding the minister’s dismissal. Party leader Abhijit Dipke tweeted, ‘Modi seems prepared to shut down all of Delhi but not ready to remove Dharmendra Pradhan.’

Spokesperson Ashutosh Rank described the fast-track court announcement as insufficient, stating, ‘This is not a real solution, just a distraction. The question paper leak is not about fast tracking, but a result of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s failure.’ Opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemned Modi’s video message as a ‘pathetic midnight video’ and urged him not to insult the intelligence of the students. Gandhi outlined three demands to the government: to dismiss Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, take action against those who have used violence against protesting students, and issue a public apology. Despite Modi’s address, the KCKJ Party has continued the protests and called for peaceful demonstrations today. Opposition parties have also maintained their demonstrations in front of the Parliament building. This ongoing protest movement in India has provided opposition parties with greater leverage to increase political pressure on Prime Minister Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The controversy sparked by the leak of the NEET exam question papers in India and the subsequent student protests have drawn national attention. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) continues to hold demonstrations at Jantar Mantar in Delhi demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and fulfillment of student demands. Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement to set up a fast-track court to investigate the NEET scandal, protesters have vowed to persist until their demands are met.

News of the paper leak broke on social media on May 5, 2024, but the National Testing Agency (NTA) denied the allegations. Although issues such as paper leaks, irregularities, and grace marks have surfaced, student opposition is intensifying. Various student organizations in cities like Delhi and Hyderabad are continuing their protests, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The matter has reached the Supreme Court, which has recommended reforms like exam digitization, restructuring of the NTA, and enhanced monitoring mechanisms. However, the problem of paper leaks persists. Nearly 2.3 million students appeared for the NEET exam held on May 3 this year. After the exam, the Rajasthan police confirmed that question papers went viral intact. The government announced the cancellation of the exam on May 12. Despite some reduction in criticism, 11 candidates committed suicide, highlighting the severe impact on students’ years of efforts and mental health.

The Cockroach Janata Party, initially limited to the digital sphere, was ironically founded by Abhijeet Deepak following the Chief Justice of India’s comparison of youth to inactive cockroaches. Targeting youth frustration and anger, CJP gained popularity on social media, receiving praise from opposition parties, influencers, and media personalities. However, with the recurrence of the NEET paper leak, CJP transcended its digital origins into a real-world movement.

Well-known YouTuber Dhruv Rathi, a vocal critic of the government, has also demanded Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. In a video posted on May 20, he raised issues like unemployment, corruption, the NEET question paper controversy, and media conditions, urging supporters to focus on the movement. Addressing the prime minister, he said, “I request the Cockroach Janata Party to recognize that the current education system has disappointed the youth. Consequently, demand the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan and include this in your manifesto.” He also humorously expressed his wish to join the Cockroach Janata Party.

CJP founder Deepak, returning to India, released a video on social media amplifying the voices of students who committed suicide. The Cockroach Janata Party continues to call for demonstrations at Jantar Mantar demanding the education minister’s resignation. Arriving from the US on June 6 with Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s autobiography, Deepak was joined by Sonam Wangchuk, who announced on June 5 that he would participate in protests if Pradhan did not resign. Wangchuk arrived at Jantar Mantar from Delhi airport carrying a rose, following Deepak’s call for peaceful protest symbolism. Wangchuk views the movement positively. While some have attempted to link CJP to conspiracy theories, on May 23 he described himself as the movement’s ‘honorary cockroach’ (Avanti Cockroach) and called on the government to address youth concerns.

In an interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI), Wangchuk emphasized that the campaign should be seen as democratic support rather than a threat. Citing the Janajati movement in Nepal, he highlighted how restrictions on online expression can produce unforeseen consequences, especially noting the complications from internet shutdowns in Nepal.

The initial days of CJP were similarly turbulent, with the issues escalating rapidly. Wangchuk was hospitalized after a 25-day indefinite hunger strike supporting the movement, having consumed only salt and water since June 28. He stated from the hospital that he would continue the strike until their demands were assured. In a letter dated July 22 from the hospital, he demanded compensation for families of students who committed suicide due to paper leaks, ensured accountability through parliamentary debate, the education minister’s resignation, and a pledge not to suppress the movement.

During Wangchuk’s hospitalization, Deepak also undertook a hunger strike but ended it after a few days for health reasons. Students too participated in hunger strikes. Central ministers have shown willingness to negotiate with CJP. On July 20, MP JP Nadda met with CJP spokesperson Saurabh Das and received their memorandum, though the government has made no official confirmation. The demands include hospital discharge for hunger strikers, immunity from legal action for protesters, Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation or dismissal, and financial compensation to families of students who died by suicide. Spokesperson Das stated they are awaiting a prolonged dialogue with Nadda. Even without commitments from the government, the movement will continue.

During the parliamentary session march, clashes broke out between police and protesters. Police established three-tier barricades at Jantar Mantar entrances, and violence erupted when the crowd attempted to break through. Crackdowns also occurred in Delhi and Patna, with complaints of women being inappropriately touched. Amnesty International reported suppression of peaceful protests in India. Amnesty India president Akar Patel confirmed such reports from Jantar Mantar. A petition in the Supreme Court against police repression was rejected, with Chief Justice Surya Kant declining to hear the case.

Following police repression on July 20, Bollywood actors, comedians, influencers, journalists, and intellectuals criticized the government and encouraged protesters to remain steadfast.

Monday’s report dispelled doubts whether CJP is confined to social media or a real movement. Many Rajasthan students came out onto streets rejecting the government’s prolonged silence. Independent journalist Smita Sharma noted that the youth do not want to ignore issues of education, inflation, and unemployment, a clear message the government must understand. Opposition parties’ involvement in the movement is increasing; parties initially keeping distance are now regular at Jantar Mantar. Congress spokesperson and MP Pawan Khedekar met protesters, stating, “Peaceful protest is every citizen’s constitutional right. When citizens undertake hunger strikes, the government’s duty is to listen, not turn away. This is the essence of governance.” He added, “I advised ending the strike for health reasons, but no movement grows stronger by losing people. We must keep fighting to survive.”

Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia visited the protest site, urging people to rise above party lines and join the march. Samajwadi Party MPs Priya Saroj, Rajiv Rai, and Ikra Hasan were also present at Jantar Mantar. Opposition parties have begun raising issues related to the CJP and the movement in Parliament. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge raised the lathi charge matter in the Rajya Sabha, accusing the Modi government of trying to suppress youth voices.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended his silence by announcing the formation of fast-track courts to resolve the NEET paper leak issue. Janata Dal United spokesperson Neeraj Kumar expressed concern, saying this is not only a student issue but also concerns parents. He hoped the prime minister’s assurance and fast-track courts would prevent leniency towards offenders and that the judiciary would ensure full punishment. Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the government’s highest priority is the welfare and future of youth. Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the Modi government, saying, “You have caused the most damage to our youth’s future. You have protected and led the education system toward destruction.” He added, “If Modi ji truly cared for the youth, all demands should have been met.”

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has expressed readiness to hold talks with CJP representatives, indicating that discussions could take place at JP Nadda’s office or residence.

US President Donald Trump has warned of a larger military action against Iran, claiming Tehran has not suffered enough pain yet. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a strong statement. Meanwhile, the US Senate rejected a proposal to halt the war and approved a $9.5 billion defense budget for military operations against Iran. (August 8, Kathmandu)

President Trump stated that the US is considering further significant military strikes on Iran, asserting that Tehran has yet to endure sufficient hardship. He indicated the possibility of launching another major military campaign soon. On the night of July 23, the US Central Command reported conducting the 13th consecutive night of airstrikes on Iran. According to CENTCOM, targets included Iranian military command centers, drone storage facilities, communication networks, coastal monitoring stations, and maritime capabilities.

According to Iran’s semi-official news agency Tasnim, a US missile strike near Ahvaz city in southwestern Khuzestan province resulted in four deaths and five injuries. Following Trump’s remarks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi strongly condemned the reckless aggression of the US, warning that Trump will pay an even heavier price to bring an end to the war.

The US Air Force has attacked five major Iranian cities—Khorramabad, Khorramabad, Konarak, Jask, and various locations in the capital Tehran. Significant explosions occurred at Jask port near the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz. In Tehran, Iran activated its air defense systems to intercept US aircraft and missiles. In northern Iraq, a US soldier died and another was injured during the controlled detonation of unexploded ordnance from an Iranian drone that had been shot down. This brings the number of US military fatalities in this conflict to 17.

8th Shrawan, Kathmandu — The European Union (EU) has approved its 21st sanctions package. This information was communicated through a message published in the ‘Official Journal of the European Union’ by the EU Council. According to the new package, 48 individuals and 168 entities have been added to the blacklist. With this addition, the total number of blacklisted individuals and entities has reached 3,100, marking the largest record to date.

The sanctions list includes drone manufacturers Andrey Doronin, Olga Korchagina, and Denis Merzlikin. Senior financial officers Sergey Belov and Ruslan Arefiev have also been included. The owners of the Svetofor chain and Mikhail Gutseriev have been added to the list. Also included are Alexander Zarov, head of Gazprom-Media, and Vladimir Tabak, head of ANO Dialogue. Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, and musician Alexander Marshal have also been blacklisted.

All these rules came into immediate effect upon publication in the EU’s Official Journal. According to the new regulations, the assets of listed individuals within the EU will be frozen immediately. They will be barred from accessing any financial resources. Additionally, strict restrictions on entry and travel within EU countries have been imposed on these individuals.

The United States has announced new tariffs ranging from 10 to 12.5 percent on about 60 major trading partner countries, accusing them of insufficient action to curb forced labor. According to US Trade Representative Jamison Greer, the decision, directed by President Donald Trump, will take effect from Friday and cover 99.4 percent of the total US imports. The Trump administration is taking this measure under the 1974 Trade Act to protect labor rights and ensure fair competition, though economists warn this could lead to higher prices for everyday consumer goods. Kathmandu, July 24.
The US has decided to impose new tariffs between 10 and 12.5 percent on nearly 60 leading trade partners, including the UK, China, India, Pakistan, Canada, Japan, and the European Union, due to their inadequate efforts to prevent imports made with forced labor.
These tariffs follow the expiration on Friday of a temporary 10 percent import tax on foreign goods enacted earlier this year. This move marks a fresh phase in the global trade war initiated during President Trump’s second term. Previously, the US Supreme Court ruled several emergency tariffs illegal, prompting the administration to pursue new legal avenues.
Last month, the White House unveiled a proposal to levy additional tariffs of 10 to 12.5 percent against 60 countries for failing to combat forced labor effectively. On Thursday, US Trade Representative Jamison Greer announced these new tariffs will come into force on Friday, as ordered by President Trump.
The tariffs will target the top 60 US trading partners, representing 99.4 percent of total imports. Greer stated, “This step addresses human rights violations and unfair trade competition, helping improve conditions for workers worldwide.”
Greer explained that this authority is based on Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act, which allows the US to impose trade restrictions or sanctions. Currently, the Trump administration already applies a 50 percent tariff on goods from Canada under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930.
According to the US Trade Representative’s office, these new tariffs will apply to countries unable to stop imports produced with forced labor. These countries account for a significant share of US total trade and imports.
During his second term, Trump made curbing imports made with forced labor a key condition in multilateral trade agreements. So far, ten partner countries have agreed to restrictions, and some others joined after further investigations. Countries that have committed to banning forced labor–made goods will face a 10 percent tariff, whereas those that haven’t will be subject to a 12.5 percent tariff.
Greer praised the cooperating countries and hopes the restrictions will be effectively enforced. The White House emphasized these tariffs are necessary to protect American workers and ensure fair competition. President Trump asserts that import taxes promote domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and strengthen the economy.
However, economists caution that higher tariffs may increase prices on daily consumer goods like coffee and microwaves. Although importers initially pay these tariffs, the extra costs are likely to be passed on to consumers. Trump has also used tariffs to pressure countries such as Mexico not only on labor rules but across other trade issues.
Business groups and affected countries are expected to oppose this move, with many considering legal challenges or retaliatory tariffs. Meanwhile, the US administration is preparing further actions. The Trade Representative’s office is investigating 16 countries for overcapacity in production, many of which supply most imports to the US. The outcomes could lead to additional tariffs later this year.

Indian social activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike. He concluded his fast following an agreement reached in the presence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh. Wangchuk had expressed solidarity with the student movement protesting the leak of the NEET-UG question paper. Kathmandu, August 24.

Wangchuk announced the end of his hunger strike via the social media platform X. He stated that after lengthy discussions and reaching certain conditions, and considering the potential risk of violence in the country, the decision was made to end the strike. Earlier, 65 members of parliament from various political parties had written to him urging him to call off the hunger strike.

On X, Wangchuk wrote, “I will soon provide detailed information about the conditions through a dedicated video. Until then, I request everyone, wherever they are, to prevent any kind of violence and to remain highly vigilant on this matter.” Students have been demonstrating at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for nearly a month, protesting the leak of the NEET-UG question paper related to medical education. The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.