On July 23, 2026 (today), a group of Supreme Court lawyers gathered on the lawns of the Supreme Court in New Delhi. They collectively recited the Preamble to the Constitution of India and sang the National Anthem. The gathering was organized under the banner “Save Democracy, Save Constitution.” It was described as a peaceful, symbolic act of solidarity, with no slogans raised. Senior Advocate Indira Jaising and others urged participation.
The lawyers framed this as a defense of constitutional values amid concerns over recent police actions against protesters.
The backdrop lies in the students’ movement where many recently were badly beaten by the Delhi police during the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) Protests This lawyers’ gathering occurs against the wider context of ongoing youth-led protests at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).
The movement emerged from deep frustration with India’s competitive exam system, particularly alleged irregularities, paper leaks, and systemic failures in exams like NEET-UG 2026. It gained its name ironically from a remark by the Chief Justice of India comparing some unemployed youth to “cockroaches.” Protesters adopted the label defiantly.
Their key demands are the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan; accountability for exam scandals; broader education and employment reforms. Activist Sonam Wangchuk undertook a prolonged hunger strike in solidarity.
The protest escalated on July 20: Thousands of students and supporters attempted a “March to Parliament” (Sansad Chalo) during the Monsoon Session. Police used batons and tear gas to stop the march, citing violence (stone-pelting, unruliness) and injuries to officers. Protesters alleged excessive force, including against students, women, and minors. Clashes injured dozens on both sides. Police later dismantled protest infrastructure at Jantar Mantar.
In the aftermath, protesters quickly regrouped despite rain and restrictions. Opposition leaders (e.g., Sharad Pawar, Arvind Kejriwal) visited the site in support. Parliament saw disruptions, with some MPs wearing black in protest. The CJP has vowed to continue the sit-in.
Why the Lawyers’ Action? Supreme Court Bar Association and other lawyer groups issued statements condemning the police response as disproportionate. The recitation served as a non-confrontational reminder of constitutional principles – justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, especially as legal complaints, PILs, and debates over protest rights continue.
Current Status (as of July 23): Protests persist at Jantar Mantar with heavy security. The lawyers’ event adds a layer of institutional and symbolic support from the legal community. Tensions remain high, with ongoing calls for accountability on both the exam issues and the handling of the protests.
This reflects broader youth discontent in India over education, jobs, and perceived institutional failures. The situation is fluid, with political, legal, and public dimensions playing out.
JANPATH NEWS NETWORK (JNN)
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