Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed forgiveness toward students who hurled expletives at him during protests last month, describing them as "misled children" who should be shown "the right path" rather than face prosecution or punishment.

The protests, led by the youth-driven Cockroach Janta Party, erupted after a critical exam was voided due to leaked questions, forcing over two million students to retake it. The movement initially gained traction through social media campaigns demanding educational reforms.

Despite Modi's conciliatory remarks, authorities in states governed by his Bharatiya Janata Party have filed cases against hundreds of protesters following clashes with security forces and the use of abusive slogans against the prime minister. Demonstrations in several parts of India, including New Delhi, saw tensions escalate as protesters attempting to march on parliament were met with tear gas, pellet shotguns, and baton charges.

In Hyderabad, police registered a case against Arun Srinivas, head of Meta India, over videos posted on Facebook that depicted Modi in an "abusive manner," according to a senior police officer.

The Cockroach protests have also led to political repercussions, including the sacking of an education minister, highlighting the movement's impact on India's political landscape.

Sources