Delhi’s ‘Cockroach’ Protest Turns‑up Tensions Over Pellet Guns

Sun Sep 06 2026 12:57:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Thousands rally in Delhi demanding education reform; footage shows officers firing pellet guns, raising concerns over police tactics.

In a dramatic display of dissent, students and activists filled Delhi’s streets in protest of perceived shortcomings in the education system and to push for a cabinet minister’s resignation. The movement, dubbed the ‘cockroach’ protest, gained wide attention as independent footage captured security officers using pellet guns to disperse crowds. The Central Reserve Police Force has not yet commented on the incidents or the injuries shown in the videos, stating it is reviewing the situation. The protest sparks debate over police response in civil demonstrations and highlights youth-driven demands for systemic change.

Delhi’s ‘Cockroach’ Protest Turns‑up Tensions Over Pellet Guns

Thousands of students and activists gathered in Delhi’s streets late last week in the ‘cockroach’ protest, demanding reforms in the education sector and calling for the resignation of a cabinet minister.

BBC Verify sifted through dozens of videos showing security officers firing pellet‑grenade‑style weapons at the demonstrators in an attempt to disperse the crowds.

The Central Reserve Police Force has been silent on the use of pellet guns and the injuries depicted in the footage, stating it is investigating the incidents. The protest has already sparked a debate over police tactics in civil disputes.

Produced by Sophie Bott. Graphics by Sally Nicholls.