Indian Students Lead Mass Protests in 'Cockroach Movement'

The Cockroach movement has emerged as India's largest student-led protest in years, with tens of thousands of young people marching under the banner of the Cockroach Janta party. Guardian South Asia correspondent Hannah Ellis-Petersen reports unprecedented levels of youth engagement in the demonstrations, describing scenes of mass mobilisation rarely witnessed in the country’s recent history. The protests highlight the power of student activism and youth voice in driving political change, offering insights into how young people organise and advocate for their interests at scale. While centred on Indian politics, the movement demonstrates the vital role of youth leadership in democratic engagement and social advocacy, reflecting themes relevant to youth participation and civic engagement strategies.