Thousands of Indian protesters gathered on Monday to march toward Parliament in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of the country’s education minister. The protest follows botched entrance exams affecting millions of students. Authorities are prepared to halt any unauthorized gatherings.
A prolonged demonstration intensified on Sunday after police removed Sonam Wangchuk, a notable activist on hunger strike for over 20 days. Police cited court-ordered essential medical care for his hospital transfer, although his family and fellow protesters opposed the move.
Protesters began converging at Jantar Mantar, a usual site for protests in the capital. Wangchuk continues his fast at the hospital. His wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, hopes for his participation in the march and has legally challenged his detention, calling it illegal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has not addressed protesters’ demands and cautioned them against breaking the law. Many participants were driven by the government’s strict actions against Wangchuk. They express dissatisfaction over the government’s silence on an issue causing distress nationwide. Reports indicate that exam mismanagement has led some students to suicide due to stress.