NEW DELHI (AP) — Thousands of young protesters were camped on the streets of New Delhi on Thursday, defying new restrictions in the latest show of strength for a movement that has become one of the biggest challenges to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.The “Cockroach” protests began more than a month ago over leaks in some of the country’s most competitive entrance exams for medical colleges and government jobs. The movement has since expanded beyond exam grievances, drawing professionals and families while channeling broader frustration.Thursday’s demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, a designated protest site in New Delhi, followed overnight clashes in which police used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds, the second such confrontation this week. On Monday, thousands of protesters had defied restrictions and marched toward Parliament before police broke up the demonstration with tear gas and batons.
AP AUDIO: India protest movement holds capital sit-in as police crack down on demonstrators
AP’s Lisa Dwyer reports on a growing political movement in India.
Protesters regrouped by Thursday morning, returning to the protest site despite roadblocks, while authorities suspended Delhi Metro services at 16 stations to limit access to the demonstrations.
