Cinema VinesHollywood actor John Cusack has become the first American star to publicly back the student protests that have been unfolding in Delhi, India. On Thursday, the 58‑year‑old actor posted a supportive message on his X account, echoing the sentiments of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and its followers. The post featured an essay by Booker‑Prize winner Arundhati Roy titled “Cockroach Democracy: Unarmed and Dangerous,” and Cusack added the caption, “Beautiful news from my favorite fellow cockroach.”
The CJP’s demonstrations have been ongoing for more than two weeks, with students and activists demanding reforms in the education sector after allegations of irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) exams. The movement has seen a mix of peaceful marches and more confrontational scenes, including a recent incident where Delhi Police used lathi charges and tear gas against protestors on Jantar Mantar and the Sansad Marg stretch. Videos circulating online show police officers firing tear gas and, according to protestors, being targeted by civilians in civilian clothes.
Earlier in 2019, Cusack had already voiced criticism of the Indian government during the crackdown on students at Jamia Millia Islamia, following the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). His latest endorsement comes two days after a police lathi‑charge that left several protestors injured during the CJP’s “Chalo Sansad” march. Cusack’s comments highlight the international attention the protests have attracted and underscore his long‑standing support for student rights.
Despite meetings with central government representatives, the protests continue. On Tuesday, opposition leader Rahul Gandhi joined a sit‑in outside the Prime Minister’s residence, only to be detained by police shortly thereafter. The situation remains tense, with clashes reported between protestors and security forces on key roads such as Connaught Place. The CJP, along with social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who began a hunger strike earlier this month, continues to press for transparency and accountability in India’s education system.
