Modi calls 'Cockroach' protesters 'misguided children', forgives them

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said he forgives the young people who made derogatory remarks against him during the 'Cockroach' movement. Describing them as 'misguided children', he said it is now the duty to show them the right path rather than punish them. However, he has also faced criticism for remaining silent on the crackdown on protesters in the capital.

In a video message posted on social media, Modi said, "The situation cannot be changed by punishing people, dragging them to courts or harassing them in society ."

Referring to the use of "filthy language" against him and his late mother during the protests, he said, "How can our daughters use such language? It is a cultural shock for us." He then added, "I want to forgive them." Drawing an analogy, he said that even if one bites one's tongue and draws blood, one does not break one's own teeth because they are one's own.

The movement, led by young people under the banner of the 'Cockroach Janta Party' (CJP), began in May after a crucial admission test was cancelled due to a question paper leak, forcing over 20 lakh candidates to retake the exam the following month . They demanded the resignation of the federal education minister and called for reforms in the education system through memes, satire and ridicule on social media . The movement spread across the country, with thousands gathering in New Delhi and other cities. Eventually, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned and the government promised not to file criminal cases against the protesters .

Meanwhile, on Friday, a senior police official said a case was filed against Arun Srinivas, head of Meta India, in Hyderabad over an objectionable video about Modi posted on Facebook.