For many protesters, the prospect of uncertain employment after years of study and highly competitive examinations has become a symbol of a wider struggle for economic security.
That gives the movement a potential staying power beyond the original dispute.
Even if the government addresses exam cheating, it cannot easily resolve the broader grievances that brought young people onto the streets.
COCKROACH INFLUENCE
The protests have left behind a youth movement with millions of followers online, but that does not guarantee lasting political influence.
The CJP has said it will organise a “nationwide listening tour” to hear the concerns of young Indians, while continuing to back protests over exam irregularities.
Demonstrations are still taking place in the eastern state of Jharkhand, suggesting the anger that fuelled the protests that began in the capital has not disappeared.
CJP founder, Abhijeet Dipke, has called for “a public movement to restore trust and neutrality in public institutions”.
“The public has become very frustrated and tired of these things. That is why our movement got such massive support,” he said.
But “for now, the CJP will function as a pressure group”, Dipke added, rather than a political party.
