Fast-Track Court Announcement, High Court Hearing, and Nationwide Protests Mark Another Day of Student Agitation
The nationwide protests over alleged examination irregularities intensified on July 23, 2026, with the Delhi High Court agreeing to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking an investigation into the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar.
The day also witnessed multiple political developments, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement of fast-track courts for paper leak cases, the closure of at least 16 Delhi Metro stations, and renewed demonstrations across several States.
The developments underscore growing public debate over examination integrity, accountability, and governance. They also highlight the importance of transparent systems, independent oversight, and auditing services in india in strengthening institutional confidence.
Delhi High Court to Hear PIL
The Delhi High Court agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation seeking a probe into the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar.
The petition comes amid heightened security arrangements and continued demonstrations in the national capital.
No decision on the merits of the petition has been delivered yet.
PM Modi Announces Fast-Track Courts
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government would establish fast-track courts to ensure quicker trials and stricter punishment in examination paper leak cases.
In a statement on social media, the Prime Minister said protecting the future of students remained a top priority and warned that those responsible for paper leaks would face stringent legal action.
CJP Says Root Cause Must Be Addressed
Reacting to the Prime Minister's announcement, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said that while fast-track courts may speed up punishment, the larger question remains why paper leaks continue to occur.
The party maintained that systemic reforms are necessary to prevent future examination irregularities.
Earlier, CJP leaders had reiterated that the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remained a non-negotiable demand.
Talks With Government Fail Again
According to sources, Union Minister J.P. Nadda invited CJP representatives for talks on Thursday.
However, the protest leaders reportedly declined the invitation, stating that any discussions should take place at a neutral venue rather than at a government location.
This was the second reported attempt at dialogue within two days.
Police Tighten Security Across Delhi
Delhi Police continued enforcing restrictions around the protest area.
Officials said students travelling towards the protest site were being stopped in some areas because Section 144 remained in force.
Police stated that the restrictions were intended to prevent injuries and maintain public order.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) closed at least 16 metro stations, including several key stations in central Delhi, due to the ongoing demonstrations.
Protests Spread Beyond Delhi
Support for the student movement continued in several parts of the country.
Key developments included:
- Demonstrations in Hyderabad demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister.
- A protest outside V.O. Chidambaram College in Thoothukudi.
- Social activist Anna Hazare observing a two-hour maun andolan (silent protest) in Maharashtra in support of the protesting students.
- Actor Alia Bhatt expressing support for the students, praising their courage on social media.
Investigation and Legal Action Continue
Delhi Police have already registered 10 FIRs in connection with the Jantar Mantar protest.
According to officials:
- Four FIRs were registered at Sansad Marg Police Station.
- Three at Connaught Place.
- One each at Mandir Marg, Kartavya Path and Barakhamba Road.
Authorities continue monitoring the protest while legal proceedings and political discussions evolve.