CJP’s five demands: Compensation for paper leaks, 72-hr backup for re-exams and independent tech audits

CJP’s Five Demands: Compensation for Paper Leaks, 72-Hour Backup for Re-Exams and Independent Tech Audits

Theindiapostdaily.com – On June 11, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) initiated a widespread protest across the country, calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The movement also unveiled an ‘exam manifesto’ outlining specific grievances, including financial support for students affected by leaked or delayed exam papers.

Activists and young advocates gathered at the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) in Pune, showcasing the movement’s growing influence. Abhijeet Dipke, the CJP founder and former Boston University student, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the need for national action. He outlined plans for demonstrations in additional cities and hinted at a return to New Delhi if the minister did not resign.

The CJP’s campaign gained momentum in May after Supreme Court Judge Surya Kant’s remarks likening some unemployed youth to “cockroaches” sparked public backlash. The term “cockroach” became a rallying symbol, reflecting the group’s resilience and attracting over 22 million followers on Instagram. The movement has since broadened its focus to address unemployment, inflation, and demands for government transparency.

Five Exam Reform Demands

The CJP has outlined five primary demands aimed at improving the exam system. These include:

1. Compensation for Paper Leak Hardship

Students who face disruptions due to leaked or delayed exams should receive financial assistance to cover additional expenses. The manifesto suggests a ₹10,000 stipend per affected student, covering costs like travel, accommodation, and mental stress. For results delayed beyond a month, an extra ₹10,000 per month would be allocated as compensation for administrative shortcomings.

“Students spend money on travel, accommodation, coaching, study material, and preparation. They also bear immense mental stress when exams are disrupted. The government should provide ₹10,000 to each student to cover costs of trains, buses, accommodation, and psychological hardship,”

2. 72-Hour Backup for Rescheduling

All major examinations must have a pre-set backup date and a thorough contingency plan. If an exam is canceled, compromised, or disrupted, re-tests should be conducted within 72 hours. This would prevent students from facing extended waits due to inadequate planning.

“If an exam is canceled, leaked, compromised, or disrupted for any reason, authorities should be prepared to conduct a re-exam within 72 hours. Students should not be left waiting for weeks or months because the government failed to plan for foreseeable contingencies,”

3. Paper-Based Evaluation for Paper Exams

The CJP argues that exams held on paper should be assessed using the same method. They stress that technology should not replace traditional evaluation until all educational institutions have equal access to reliable infrastructure. Paper-based exams must ensure transparency and fairness in grading.

“Until every school and examination centre has access to reliable, high-quality technological facilities, paper-based exams should be evaluated through a transparent paper-based process. Technology should be used to strengthen education, not to create new doubts about fairness and accountability,”

4. Automatic Age Limit Extensions

Students who lose job opportunities due to exam delays should have their age limits automatically extended by the duration of the postponement. The demand highlights that administrative failures should not cost young candidates their chances.

“Whenever an exam is postponed, cancelled, or its results are delayed, the age limit must automatically be extended by the length of the delay. The government’s failure should not reduce a student’s chances,”

5. Independent Tech Audits for Digital Exams

For all computer-based exams, an independent third-party audit must be performed at each center at least seven days prior. This would ensure hardware, software, internet connectivity, and infrastructure are tested thoroughly. If a center fails the audit, it should be replaced immediately to avoid technical issues.

“Hardware, software, internet connectivity, and infrastructure must be tested in advance. If a centre fails the audit, it must be replaced immediately. Students should not suffer because of preventable technical failures,”

Additionally, the CJP proposes that each exam carry a unique QR code, enabling access to details about technology vendors, audit certifications, and system compliance. This measure aims to promote accountability in the examination process.