Indian authorities suspended mobile internet services and closed 16 metro stations in central Delhi on Thursday as student-led protests over alleged medical exam paper leaks escalated into clashes with police.

The Ministry of Home Affairs ordered a temporary internet blackout within a 1.5-kilometre radius of Jantar Mantar until midnight, following a day of demonstrations demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The protests, organized by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), stem from allegations surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). Delhi Police reported that anti-social elements infiltrated the crowd at Jantar Mantar late Wednesday, throwing stones that injured two assistant commissioners of police and four officers. Police responded with tear gas and baton charges.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation suspended operations at key hubs, including Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat, though interchange facilities remained accessible.

In his first public statement on the controversy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured students that their interests remain the top priority, warning that anyone found tampering with the country's youth and their future would face severe consequences.

Government sources indicated Thursday that officials are open to holding talks with the student group after receiving a formal letter from CJP founder Abhijit Dipke requesting a meeting.

Meanwhile, police rejected claims circulating on social media that a female demonstrator had died during the crackdowns, warning that legal action will be taken against those spreading misinformation.