All sixteen closed Delhi Metro stations have reopened as the Cockroach Janta Party continues its protests against exam paper leaks, demanding accountability from the government.
Shillong, India Jul 22, 2026 ALN: Even as the Cockroach Janta Party pledged to continue its agitation against exam paper leaks, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced on Wednesday evening that all sixteen closed metro stations have now been made accessible for the public. This reopening is significant as it reflects the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy in the city amid heightened tensions due to the protests.
The DMRC had carried out a phased opening of the stations, starting with Mandi House and Central Secretariat Metro stations, followed by the Jhandewalan station, which was also closed during the day. In a post on social media platform X, DMRC stated: “All stations of the Delhi Metro network are now open for passenger services.” This announcement came as a relief to commuters who rely heavily on the metro for their daily travel, especially in a bustling metropolis like Delhi where traffic congestion is a persistent issue.
Since Wednesday morning, sixteen central Delhi Metro stations, including Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, and Central Secretariat, were closed amid heightened security due to the Jantar Mantar protest. The closure of these stations significantly impacted the flow of commuters in central Delhi, necessitating alternative travel arrangements and causing disruptions in daily routines. However, DMRC had assured that interchange facilities would remain operational at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat to facilitate transfers despite the full station closures, which helped mitigate some of the inconvenience caused to passengers.
The list of stations whose entry and exit gates were closed included Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhambha Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, and Shivaji Stadium. The closure of such key stations underscores the scale of the protests and the authorities' response to ensure safety and security in the area.
This comes against the backdrop of violent protests that erupted on Monday as scores of agitators, led by the Cockroach Janata Party, marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over recurring examination irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leaks. The NEET-UG, or the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduates, is a crucial examination for students seeking admission to medical colleges in India. The integrity of such examinations is paramount, and allegations of irregularities have sparked widespread outrage among students and parents alike.
The protests, which began at Jantar Mantar, attracted students, opposition leaders, and activists who called for accountability in the education system. The gathering at Jantar Mantar is significant as it has historically been a site for peaceful protests and demonstrations in the capital, providing a platform for citizens to voice their concerns. The involvement of various stakeholders, including students and political leaders, highlights the broader implications of the issue at hand, which goes beyond individual grievances to touch upon systemic failures within the educational framework.
The Delhi Police, which faced criticism for alleged brutality against the protesters, has promised a thorough investigation into the violence. This commitment to investigate the police's actions is crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring that the rights of citizens to protest are upheld. The police's response to the protests has been closely monitored, as any perceived overreach could lead to further unrest and escalate tensions in an already volatile situation. Meanwhile, security has been heightened in the area to maintain law and order, with increased police presence aimed at preventing further escalation of violence.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Cockroach Janta Party wrote a letter to climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, urging him to end his 25-day hunger strike, which has been a focal point of the agitation demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak. Wangchuk, known for his advocacy on environmental issues and education reform, has garnered significant attention for his hunger strike, which symbolizes the desperation and urgency felt by many regarding the integrity of the examination system. His involvement adds a layer of complexity to the protests, as it intertwines the issues of education and environmental sustainability.
The ongoing protests and the reopening of the metro stations reflect a critical moment in Delhi's socio-political landscape. They bring to the forefront the pressing need for reforms in the education sector, particularly in how examinations are conducted and monitored. The allegations of paper leaks not only undermine the credibility of the educational institutions involved but also affect the future of countless students who invest their hopes and aspirations in these examinations.
As the situation develops, the implications of these protests could extend beyond immediate demands for accountability from the Union Education Minister. They may lead to broader discussions about educational policies, the role of government in ensuring fair access to education, and the mechanisms in place to address grievances related to examination irregularities. The protests serve as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of civic engagement in a democratic society.
In conclusion, while the reopening of the Delhi Metro stations signifies a return to normalcy for daily commuters, the underlying issues that prompted the protests remain unresolved. The demands for accountability and transparency in the education system continue to resonate with many, and how the government responds to these challenges will likely shape the future of educational governance in India. As stakeholders from various sectors engage in dialogue and advocacy, the hope is that meaningful reforms will emerge from this tumultuous period, ultimately benefiting students and the integrity of the educational system as a whole.
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