Episode
The 'Cockroaches': Why are thousands of young Indians protesting?
- Published
- Jul 22, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1500
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://the-world.captivate.fm
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Summary
Tear gas, baton charges and hunger strikes. Thousands of young people have descended on New Delhi to demand the resignation of the education minister and a complete overhaul of the education system. Many of them march under the banner of the ‘Cockroach’ - a movement that started as a satirical joke, but which has now become the symbol of youth resistance. What began online has now moved to the streets. Yalda talks to Neville Lazarus, our correspondent in India, who has been at the protests, talking to those caught up in the police crackdown. The two of them discuss the origins of the protests as well as the wider problems facing India's Gen Z. Warning: today’s episode contains references to suicide and violence against women and girls. If you have been affected by any of the issues Yalda and Neville discussed you can call The Samaritans, free of charge in the UK, on 116 123. You can email your questions to Richard and Yalda at [email protected] You can also watch our podcasts on our YouTube channel here .