India’s 'Cockroach' Protests: Experts Confirm Use of Pellet Guns on Youth

Experts have confirmed that dozens of youth protesters in India, referred to by some officials as 'cockroach' protesters, have sustained wounds consistent with pellet-gun fire. Ballistic analysts noted the tell-tale signs of tiny round punctures on the bodies of demonstrators who participated in recent rallies against the government. The findings contradict initial reports regarding the level of force used by security services.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the controversy by stating he 'forgives' the students who allegedly abused him during the protests. However, he emphasized that the 'misled children' need to be shown the 'right path.' Critics have pointed out a disconnect between the Prime Minister's message of forgiveness and the ongoing crackdown, which includes social media takedowns, doxing, and online abuse of protesters.

The 'Cockroach' protests, driven largely by youth and students, have become a major point of friction in Indian politics. While the government claims the movement is being manipulated by outside interests, human rights organizations are calling for an independent investigation into the use of non-lethal weapons that have caused permanent injuries to several participants.