A 30-year-old man died after being taken into custody in Janjgir-Champa over an alleged illegal liquor case. His family accused police of assault, while officials said he suffered a medical emergency. A constable has been suspended and an investigation is underway.

A 30-year-old man died after being taken into police custody in Chhattisgarh’s Janjgir-Champa district, following which his family members accused the police of assault and staged a protest outside the police station.The incident took place under the jurisdiction of Champa Police Station. The deceased has been identified as Shiv Sahis, a resident of Mehendipara.According to police, Shiv was detained on Wednesday in connection with an alleged illegal liquor case. Officials said he was accused of possessing around 20 litres of country-made liquor.

Family alleges assault, surrounds police station

After learning about his death, Shiv’s family members and local residents gathered outside Champa Police Station and demanded action.The family alleged that Shiv was beaten while in custody, leading to his death. They demanded a fair investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.Police officials, however, denied the allegations and said the exact cause of death would be clear after the post-mortem examination.

Police version: Health deteriorated in custody

Police said Shiv’s health condition worsened at around 10 pm on Wednesday while he was at the police station.He was first taken to BDM Hospital for treatment. Later, he was shifted to Janjgir District Hospital, where he died on Thursday morning around 6 am, according to officials.Police said Shiv suffered a seizure-like medical episode and claimed that doctors attempted to provide treatment.

Constable suspended after incident

Following the incident, Janjgir-Champa Superintendent of Police Vijay Kumar Pandey suspended constable Ishwari Rathore for alleged negligence and indiscipline.Officials said further action would depend on the findings of the investigation.

Post-mortem report awaited

The body has been kept at the mortuary of Janjgir District Hospital for post-mortem examination. Police said the report will help establish the exact cause of death.Additional Superintendent of Police Dr Yulanden Yark said Shiv had previous criminal cases registered against him, including matters related to liquor and assault. He said legal proceedings were being carried out after his detention.Police have deployed personnel in the area as tension increased following the protest. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Saturday criticised the Delhi Police over the delay in registering an FIR in connection with the alleged pellet-gun injuries suffered by 19-year-old student Sahil Lochav during a protest in New Delhi. Chidambaram said it took 30 days and a seven-hour sit-in protest by Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi before the complaint was formally registered. The FIR was filed on Friday after Gandhi staged a dharna at the Parliament Street police station, demanding action on Lochav's complaint. 

Chidambaram said the delay was contrary to the Supreme Court's position that an FIR should be registered promptly when a complaint discloses a cognisable offence. In a post on X, he congratulated Lochav for pursuing the matter and Rahul Gandhi for using the protest to press for registration of the case. The Congress leader's remarks were directed at the police response and did not represent an independent judicial finding that the allegations in the complaint had been established. 

What Happened at Protest

The case relates to a July 20 protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, during which Lochav sustained injuries that he has attributed to pellet-gun firing. He was subsequently treated at AIIMS and has continued to face problems with his vision, according to reports. The alleged use of pellet guns during the protest has become a political issue, with the Congress demanding accountability and action against those responsible. Reports have also noted that the government has not independently confirmed the use of pellet guns in the incident. 

Rahul Gandhi's intervention brought the issue back into focus on Friday when he, along with other Congress leaders and Lochav, held a prolonged protest outside the Parliament Street police station. Gandhi demanded that police register the complaint and investigate the circumstances surrounding the injuries. The sit-in ended after the Delhi Police registered the FIR. The case was registered under Sections 118 and 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, according to reports. 

FIR Registration and Next Step

The registration of an FIR marks the beginning of a formal criminal investigation; it does not by itself establish the allegations made in the complaint. Police will now be expected to investigate the circumstances of the July 20 incident, examine the evidence and determine the sequence of events and responsibility, if any. The development has nevertheless become a point of political confrontation between the Congress and the Delhi Police over the handling of complaints arising from protests.

Chidambaram's criticism centres on the time taken to register the case and the circumstances in which it was eventually filed. For the Congress, the episode has also been presented as an issue of police accountability and the right of an injured protester to have his complaint formally investigated. The police investigation will determine what happened during the protest and whether the allegations made in the complaint are supported by evidence. 

Sendhwa MLA Montu Solanki was stopped by police at his office for around one-and-a-half hours on Friday while he was preparing to join a protest in Niwali, Barwani district. The legislator was accompanied by more than 300 supporters and was heading to the ongoing agitation demanding action against Block Education Officer (BEO) Manoj Marathe.

After discussions with administrative and police officials, and in the absence of a written order regarding the officer, Solanki eventually left for Niwali along with his supporters.

Protest Against BEO Continues

The agitation in Niwali has been continuing for the past four days. Members of the Jai Adivasi Yuva Shakti (JAYS) organisation have been demanding the removal and suspension of BEO Manoj Marathe.

According to the allegations raised by protesters, a criminal case has been registered against Marathe at Sendhwa Rural Police Station and he has also been accused of abetting a teacher's suicide.

Solanki was scheduled to join the protest and demanded that the BEO's financial powers be withdrawn immediately and that he be suspended pending further action.

MLA Stopped at Office

As Solanki prepared to travel to Niwali, police personnel stopped him at his office. The MLA remained there for approximately 90 minutes while discussions were held with officials.

Sendhwa SDOP Ajay Waghmare reportedly met Solanki and discussed the situation. Police and administrative officials gave an oral assurance that action would be considered against the BEO.

However, no written suspension order was presented to the MLA during the discussions.

Written Order Remains Key Demand

After waiting for around one-and-a-half hours, Solanki decided to proceed to Niwali with his supporters.

The MLA has maintained that a verbal assurance is not sufficient and has sought concrete action against Marathe. His demand includes immediate withdrawal of the BEO's financial powers and suspension from the post.

The ongoing dispute has also brought the administration's handling of the allegations against the education official under scrutiny.

MLA Warns of Stronger Agitation

Solanki alleged that the officer facing criminal allegations was being protected by the government and administration.

He warned that the agitation would be intensified if authorities failed to take prompt action or attempted to suppress the protest.

The MLA said the responsibility for any escalation would rest with the administration.

Protest Now in Focus

With Solanki reaching Niwali with more than 300 supporters, the situation is expected to remain closely watched. The protesters are continuing to press for written action against the BEO rather than relying solely on assurances from officials.

The administration's next step on the suspension demand is likely to determine whether the protest is withdrawn or expanded.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leaders, including Bihar Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav and party MP Misa Bharti, were detained by Patna police on Wednesday, August 19, during a protest march towards the Lok Bhawan.

The protest was organised against what the RJD described as the “dictatorial attitude” of the state government and over the alleged firing of an AK-47 rifle at student protesters in Siwan district last month.

Protesters Stopped at Barricades

The RJD leaders and supporters marched towards the Lok Bhawan but were stopped by police near Income Tax Chouraha, where barricades had been put up to prevent the protesters from moving ahead.

When protesters attempted to cross the barricades, police used water cannons to disperse the gathering.

Several RJD leaders were subsequently detained by the police.

Tejashwi Leads Protest

Tejashwi Yadav, who is the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, participated in the march along with senior RJD leaders and party workers.

The protest comes amid the Opposition's continued criticism of the state government's handling of incidents involving students and protesters.

The RJD has alleged that the government has failed to adequately address the concerns surrounding the Siwan incident.

Misa Bharti Among Detainees

RJD MP Misa Bharti, the elder daughter of party chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, was also among those detained during the demonstration.

Party workers gathered in large numbers as the march proceeded towards the Lok Bhawan. Police deployed barricades and security personnel along the route in anticipation of the protest.

Siwan Firing Incident

The demonstration was also linked to an alleged incident in Siwan district, where an AK-47 rifle was reportedly fired at student protesters last month.

The RJD has raised the incident as an issue of law and order and has demanded accountability from the state government.

The party has accused the government of adopting an authoritarian approach towards protesters and opposition voices.

Police Use Water Cannons

The confrontation escalated when protesters attempted to move beyond the barricades. Police used water cannons to push the demonstrators back and prevent them from proceeding towards the Lok Bhawan.

The detention of senior RJD leaders followed the police action.

The protest and subsequent detentions are likely to intensify the political confrontation between the RJD and the state government, particularly with the Opposition continuing to raise questions over law and order.

RJD Steps Up Opposition

The latest demonstration reflects the RJD's effort to put pressure on the government through street protests over issues it considers politically and socially significant.

With Tejashwi Yadav at the forefront, the party has continued to challenge the government's handling of public protests and law-and-order matters.

The developments in Patna come against the backdrop of a politically charged atmosphere in Bihar, with the Opposition seeking to mobilise supporters around issues involving students, governance and public safety.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and senior party leaders staged a sit-in protest in the national capital on Tuesday after Delhi Police stopped their march towards the Prime Minister's residence over the Centre's E20 fuel policy.

The protest, held on Firoz Shah Road, saw Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and other AAP leaders accusing the Union government of ignoring public concerns over ethanol-blended fuel. The party claimed it was carrying petitions signed by more than two lakh people demanding a review of the policy.

Police Stop March to PM's Residence

AAP leaders had planned to march to the Prime Minister's residence to submit a memorandum against the E20 policy.

However, Delhi Police halted the procession before it reached its destination, following which Kejriwal and several party leaders sat on the road in protest.

The party said it had informed the police in advance about its programme and maintained that the march was intended only to submit public petitions to the Prime Minister.

Kejriwal Seeks Meeting With PM

Addressing supporters before and during the protest, Kejriwal said he had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modiseeking an appointment to discuss concerns over E20 fuel but had not received a response.

He said the AAP wanted to hand over petitions signed by over two lakh citizens and urged the Prime Minister to meet the delegation.

Kejriwal also reiterated the party's demand that fuel stations continue to provide both conventional petrol and E20 fuel, while calling for a reduction in the price of ethanol-blended petrol.

Allegations Over Ethanol Policy

During the protest, Kejriwal alleged that the Centre was importing ethanol from the United States under pressure from US President Donald Trump.

He claimed that ethanol imported from the US was being imposed on Indian consumers and alleged that the policy could adversely affect a large number of existing vehicles.

The AAP chief described the issue as one that could trigger a nationwide public movement and said a campaign "bigger than the NEET protests" would be required to force the government to reconsider its policy.

These allegations have been made by the AAP leadership. The Union government has not accepted these claims.

AAP Says Public Concerns Ignored

AAP leaders accompanying the protest claimed that many vehicle owners had reported problems linked to the use of E20 fuel.

Delhi AAP president Saurabh Bhardwaj said the party had repeatedly appealed for dialogue with the Centre and accused the government of refusing to engage with citizens on the issue.

AAP leader Anurag Dhanda also alleged that crores of vehicles could be affected by the policy and urged the Centre to reconsider its implementation.

BJP Rejects Allegations

The Bharatiya Janata Party dismissed the AAP's campaign, calling it politically motivated.

BJP MP Tarun Chugh described the protest as "absurd" and said the ethanol blending programme had been introduced after scientific evaluation.

He argued that ethanol blending benefits farmers by increasing demand for agricultural produce used in ethanol production and accused the AAP of spreading misinformation.

Debate Over E20 Policy Continues

The protest comes amid growing political debate over the rollout of E20 petrol, following recent government acknowledgements that prolonged use of E20 fuel may require replacement of certain rubber components in older BS-III vehicles, though authorities have clarified that engine replacement is not required.

With the AAP stepping up its campaign and the BJP defending the policy, the issue is expected to remain a key political flashpoint in the coming weeks.

 Tension prevailed in Madhya Pradesh's Indore on Saturday after a group of Kanwar pilgrims staged a protest in Chandan Nagar, demanding legal action against a cleric over alleged objectionable remarks about Lord Shiva.

The protest, led by Akhil Bharatiya Balai Mahasangh National President Manoj Parmar, saw a large number of devotees gather outside Chandan Nagar Police Station, where they submitted a memorandum seeking registration of an FIR against Maulana Jargis Ansari.

Protest Outside Police Station

The protesters raised slogans outside the police station, alleging that the cleric's purported comments had hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus and millions of devotees of Lord Shiva.

They urged police to register a case immediately and initiate strict legal action. Representatives of the organisation later handed over a written complaint along with supporting material to police officials.

The demonstrators warned that if prompt action was not taken, they would intensify their agitation in the coming days.

Police Begin Preliminary Verification

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Shivendra Joshi said the protest took place while a Kanwar Yatra was passing from Chandan Nagar towards Gangwal.

He confirmed that the complainants had submitted an application alleging that a religious leader from another community had made objectionable remarks about Hindu deities. A video was also submitted along with the complaint.

"The video is being examined to verify where it was recorded and to establish the identity of the person seen in it. Appropriate legal action will be taken after the facts are verified and the findings are placed before senior officers," the ACP said.

Organisers Warn of Larger Agitation

Speaking after submitting the complaint, Manoj Parmar alleged that the remarks made by Maulana Jargis Ansari about Lord Shiva, whom devotees also worship as Mahakal, were offensive and deeply hurt the religious sentiments of the Hindu community.

He said the Kanwar pilgrims, under the guidance of Mahamandaleshwar Nitin Das Maharaj, approached the police seeking immediate registration of an FIR.

According to Parmar, police officials assured the delegation that the matter would be examined, following which the Kanwar Yatra resumed.

However, he warned that if an FIR is not registered and the accused is not arrested, the organisation would launch a larger protest. He said a Kanwar Yatra involving around 5,000 participants is planned for next Monday and further demonstrations, including a possible gherao of the police station or the Superintendent of Police's office, could be organised if no action is taken.

Police have stated that the matter remains under investigation and that any legal action will be based on the outcome of the verification process.

 The Chhattisgarh Congress has announced a three-day statewide agitation against rising electricity bills and the implementation of smart meters, culminating in a protest outside the Chief Minister's residence in Raipur on August 3.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee (CPCC) president Deepak Baij alleged that increasing electricity charges and higher consumer bills have placed an additional financial burden on households across the state. He said the party would intensify its campaign by taking the issue directly to the people.

Three-Day Protest Plan

The Congress has scheduled a phased statewide programme from August 1 to August 3.

On August 1, district Congress units will hold press conferences at district headquarters to highlight issues related to rising electricity tariffs, inflated power bills and complaints linked to smart meters.

On August 2, party workers will conduct a door-to-door outreach campaign across urban and rural areas. During the campaign, they will interact with electricity consumers and collect written representations against high power bills and the installation of smart meters.

The campaign will conclude on August 3, when Congress leaders and workers from across the state will gather in Raipur to stage a protest and lay siege to the Chief Minister's residence.

Congress Targets State Government

Deepak Baij alleged that electricity consumers have been receiving unusually high bills in recent months, affecting household budgets. He claimed that the introduction of smart meters and revisions in electricity charges have added to the financial pressure on families.

According to the Congress, the proposed agitation aims to build public opinion against what it describes as "expensive electricity" and to press the government to review power tariffs and provide relief to consumers.

Door-to-Door Campaign

As part of the outreach programme, Congress workers will visit homes to collect complaints from electricity consumers. The party plans to submit these representations to the government, demanding corrective measures regarding billing issues and electricity tariffs.

The Congress said the campaign would cover both rural and urban areas in an effort to mobilise public support on the issue.

Warning of Bigger Agitation

Baij said the Congress has been raising concerns over electricity prices and smart meters for several months and is now expanding the campaign into a statewide movement.

He warned that if the state government does not provide relief to consumers or review the electricity tariff structure, the party would intensify its agitation in the coming weeks.

The Chhattisgarh government has not yet responded to the Congress' announcement of the proposed protests.

Violence erupts during anti-government demonstrations in Rawalakot; rival political parties trade allegations of poll rigging

At least 19 people were killed and several others injured after Pakistani security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters during anti-government demonstrations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)amid the first phase of Assembly elections. The violence broke out as protesters called for a boycott of the polls, with opposition groups accusing authorities of suppressing dissent and manipulating the electoral process.

Supporters of the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) claimed security personnel fired indiscriminately on demonstrators in Rawalakot, killing at least 19 people. The organisation later released the names of those killed through its social media platforms.

Separately, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) alleged that one of its workers was killed and two others were injured in firing by supporters of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Both parties have accused each other of attempting to influence the election through rigging.

Election boycott fuels unrest

Thousands of protesters gathered in Rawalakot and other parts of PoK demanding a boycott of the Assembly elections and protesting against the existing political system.

Visuals from several polling stations reportedly showed deserted voting centres, with local reports claiming poor voter turnout in multiple areas. Demonstrators argued that the electoral process lacked credibility and accused the government of undermining democratic rights.

The unrest comes after the Pakistan government banned the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) ahead of a planned protest in June and detained several of its leaders. Since then, sit-ins, demonstrations and road blockades have continued across parts of PoK.

Security measures tightened

Authorities imposed strict security arrangements in several districts following weeks of unrest. Mobile internet services remain suspended in many areas, while restrictions on movement have affected the supply of essential goods in some regions.

The Poonch division, considered the centre of the protests, has witnessed prolonged demonstrations and repeated clashes between protesters and security forces in recent weeks.

Refugee seats remain key point of dispute

The elections are being conducted in three phases for the 45-member Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Assembly, after authorities postponed the original polling schedule citing security concerns.

A major point of contention remains the 12 Assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees residing in Pakistan. JAAC has opposed the arrangement, arguing that these seats dilute the political representation of residents living in PoK and disproportionately benefit parties ruling in Islamabad.

The Pakistan government, however, maintains that the refugee seats are constitutionally protected and form part of the region's long-standing electoral framework.

National leaders campaign despite tensions

Despite the deteriorating security situation, senior leaders from Pakistan's major political parties actively campaigned in PoK.

Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz addressed multiple election rallies, promising major infrastructure and development projects. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also campaigned extensively, hoping to improve the party's electoral performance in the region.

The Assembly election follows continued political instability after the collapse of the previous government, with multiple leadership changes since the 2021 polls.

Authorities have not yet released an official casualty figure beyond local reports, while investigations into the violence remain ongoing.

Delhi Police is preparing to initiate action against allegedly objectionable and abusive social media content targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other political leaders following the recent student protest at Jantar Mantar, according to police sources.

Officials said notices may soon be issued to major social media platforms seeking the removal of posts, videos, reels and comments that are found to contain abusive or objectionable material linked to the protest.

The move comes after authorities began reviewing online content uploaded during and after the 36-day agitation over the alleged NEET paper leak.

Social Media Content Under Review

According to police sources, Delhi Police is examining content circulating across multiple social media platforms to determine whether it violates legal provisions or has the potential to disturb public order.

After completing the review, the police are expected to send formal notices to the concerned platforms requesting the removal of content considered unlawful or abusive.

Officials said the department's social media monitoring unit has been tracking online activity related to the protest and identifying posts that may warrant further legal action.

Monitoring Exercise Underway

Police sources said the identification process is already in progress, with investigators scrutinising videos, comments and other digital content shared during the agitation.

Authorities are also assessing whether any of the material amounts to offences under existing laws governing online communication, public order and defamation.

No official details have been released regarding the number of posts under review or the platforms that may receive notices.

Protest Marked by Strong Digital Presence

The student movement, which continued for 36 days at Jantar Mantar, drew widespread attention not only for its demands but also for its extensive use of digital platforms.

Supporters used social media, live streams, memes, reels and online campaigns to amplify the protest, while food, medicines and other essential supplies were delivered directly to demonstrators through online delivery applications.

Organisers also maintained digital records of assistance received through dedicated help desks, reflecting the movement's technology-driven approach.

Women and Volunteers Played Key Role

The protest witnessed significant participation by women, with several participants describing the demonstration as a safe environment despite large crowds.

Volunteers distributed drinking water, provided medical assistance and supported fellow protesters during the prolonged sit-in amid the summer heat.

The movement relied heavily on digital communication to maintain nationwide engagement even during periods of internet disruption.

Concerns Emerged During Final Phase

While the protest remained largely peaceful for most of its duration, a few incidents during its closing stages drew criticism.

Police sources and observers noted that some individuals with no apparent connection to the movement joined the gathering, creating disruption during the distribution of food and other supplies.

There were also reports of isolated incidents of violence after the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, which, according to observers, affected the movement's public image.

Protest Ended After Minister's Resignation

The agitation began over allegations surrounding the NEET paper leak and continued from June 20 at Jantar Mantar.

The protest concluded on July 25 after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister. Social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had joined the students' hunger strike, also ended his fast after receiving assurances from the government.

Delhi Police's review of online content is continuing, and further action will depend on the outcome of the ongoing legal and technical examination.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday met people injured during the police action against the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest and announced legal assistance for those detained. Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal sharply criticised the Centre over the police crackdown, alleging excessive use of force against protesters and demanding transparency regarding those taken into custody.

Kejriwal later visited Parliament Street Police Station in Delhi, where several protesters were reportedly being held, and sought details from senior police officials about the cases registered following the demonstration. He also said he would visit Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital to meet those injured during the police action.

AAP Announces Legal Assistance

To support those affected by the police action, the AAP chief announced a legal assistance helpline and appealed to protesters and their families to contact the party if they required legal support.

According to Kejriwal, individuals arrested in connection with the CJP protest could seek assistance through the helpline, where a dedicated legal team would provide guidance and representation if required.

Demands Transparency on Detentions

Kejriwal urged the Delhi Police to publicly release the complete list of First Information Reports (FIRs) registered in connection with the protest. He also demanded details of those allegedly detained without formal FIRs, including the locations where they were being held.

He said such information was essential so that families searching for missing relatives could know their whereabouts.

Criticises Police Action

During the press conference, Kejriwal alleged that videos circulating on social media showed excessive force being used against protesters. Referring to these videos, he claimed that peaceful demonstrators, including young participants, had been subjected to unnecessary force.

He further criticised the government's handling of the protest and accused the authorities of attempting to intimidate citizens participating in demonstrations.

Visit to Police Stations

The AAP chief stated that after meeting injured protesters at the hospital, he would also visit Parliament Street and Mandir Marg Police Stations, where, according to the party, several protesters had been detained.

Kejriwal said he intended to seek official information regarding those arrested and the legal proceedings initiated after the protest.

Political Reactions Continue

The police action on CJP protesters has triggered a political confrontation, with opposition parties questioning the government's response to the demonstration, while authorities have maintained that law enforcement acted to maintain public order.

The incident has also intensified the ongoing political debate over the handling of protests and public demonstrations, with opposition leaders demanding accountability and greater transparency from the administration.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will organise a collective Hanuman Chalisa recitation across all 90 Assembly constituencies of Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. In Raipur, the main programme is scheduled to take place at Budha Talab at 4 pm, where party workers, students, youth and local residents have been invited to participate in large numbers.

According to AAP, the event is not merely a religious gathering but a collective expression of support for social harmony, ethical values, public service and democratic rights. The party said the programme is also being organised to express solidarity with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk and raise concerns over the action taken against him.

Support for Sonam Wangchuk

AAP leaders alleged that the action against Sonam Wangchuk is contrary to democratic principles and claimed that peaceful voices are being suppressed. The party said the Hanuman Chalisa recitation is intended to convey a message of peace while highlighting the importance of protecting democratic freedoms.

The party has appealed to citizens across the state to join the programmes being held in their respective Assembly constituencies.

Exam Irregularities Also on Agenda

Apart from expressing support for Wangchuk, AAP said it would also raise concerns over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including NEET and other recruitment tests.

The party alleged that repeated paper leak incidents have adversely affected the future of millions of students and job aspirants across the country. It argued that accountability should be fixed for such incidents and called for reforms to ensure a transparent examination system.

Demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation

AAP has demanded that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan take moral responsibility for the alleged examination irregularities and resign from his post.

The party also urged the government to strengthen safeguards against paper leaks and implement a fair and transparent examination process for students and candidates.

Key Demands Raised by AAP

• Withdrawal of action taken against Sonam Wangchuk and an end to his police detention.
• Resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, citing moral responsibility for alleged examination irregularities.
• Implementation of a transparent and fair examination system for students and job aspirants.
• Concrete measures to generate greater employment opportunities for the youth.

AAP said the statewide programme aims to combine public participation with awareness on issues related to democracy, education and employment while encouraging citizens to take part peacefully in the initiative.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after completing 20 days of an indefinite hunger strike, following growing concerns over his deteriorating health and directions from the Delhi High Court.

Police escorted Wangchuk from the protest site at Jantar Mantar for medical treatment after doctors warned that his condition had worsened due to prolonged fasting.

Hospital Shift Follows High Court Directions

The move came two days after the Delhi High Court directed authorities to conduct daily medical examinations of Wangchuk, observing that "the life of any citizen is precious."

The court instructed officials to ensure regular health monitoring and provide necessary medical intervention if his condition continued to decline.

According to Delhi Police, the decision to hospitalise Wangchuk was taken based on expert medical advice and in compliance with the High Court's order.

Police Clear Protest Site

Following Wangchuk's transfer to the hospital, police began clearing protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar.

A brief commotion broke out as some demonstrators attempted to obstruct the police action. However, officials said the operation was carried out with restraint and without major incident.

In a statement posted on X, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) said authorities had safely shifted Wangchuk for essential medical care and appealed to remaining protesters to vacate the protest site peacefully.

Health Condition Raises Concern

Medical bulletins issued over the past several days had repeatedly highlighted Wangchuk's declining health.

Doctors reported that he had lost more than eight kilograms since beginning his hunger strike and warned that prolonged starvation was taking a serious toll on his physical condition.

His transfer to the hospital follows continuous monitoring by medical teams stationed at the protest venue.

Demand Over NEET Paper Leak

Wangchuk began the indefinite fast demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET examination paper leak.

The protest has drawn significant public attention, with Wangchuk insisting that accountability is necessary to restore confidence in India's examination system.

Opposition Leaders Express Support

Several Opposition leaders visited Wangchuk during his fast and expressed solidarity with his demands while urging him to end the hunger strike in view of his worsening health.

Among those who met him were:

• Congress leader Pawan Khera

• Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav

• Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal

They appealed to the activist to prioritise his health while continuing the campaign through democratic means.

What Happens Next

With Wangchuk now under medical supervision, attention is expected to shift to whether he continues or suspends his hunger strike based on doctors' advice and any future developments regarding his demands.

The Delhi High Court is also expected to continue monitoring the matter as authorities provide updates on his health condition.