05 June,2026 06:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Atul Kulkarni (Pic via Instagram)
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which rose to prominence in a short span of time, is set to stage its first protest in the national capital on June 6. Founded by Abhijeet Dipke, the party claims to fight for the rights of young people, with the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan being its primary demand.
Ahead of the protest, actor Atul Kulkarni penned a note expressing his support for the movement.
On Friday, Kulkarni took to social media and shared a note in both English and Hindi addressed to the youth of the country. In the message, he praised young people for standing up for their rights.
"Dear young citizens, tomorrow is a significant day," wrote the actor.
"As you prepare to make your voices heard and your choices count, I place my hope in you."
He further added, "My generation, and a few before and after, have not always lived up to our responsibilities. We have made mistakes and left behind challenges that you now inherit. For that, I ask your pardon.
"May you reshape this country with integrity and compassion. My heartfelt good wishes to you all."
The protest has been called to seek Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, which led to the cancellation of the May 3 examination and the announcement of a re-examination on June 21. Following the NEET controversy, issues surrounding the CBSE examination results also highlighted alleged administrative lapses that affected lakhs of students.
Several prominent personalities have extended their support to the CJP's protest at Jantar Mantar. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, actor Prakash Raj and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray have publicly backed the party's agenda.
Wangchuk has announced that he will join the June 6 protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar if Dharmendra Pradhan does not resign by June 5. He said his decision stems from broader concerns about the state of education in India and the implementation of education reforms.
Prakash Raj has also voiced his support for the movement. In a post on X, he said he was trying to reach Delhi on June 6 despite being occupied with a film shoot and urged young supporters to attend the protest. Calling it the "most relevant Cockroach movement," Raj said he wanted to stand in solidarity with the cause.
The event is expected to draw attention from political groups and student organisations alike. Founder Abhijeet Dipke is scheduled to arrive in India from the United States on June 6 for the protest.
