India's 'Cockroach' Protest: How Demonstrators Bypassed Internet Blackout with Bluetooth

On October 10, New Delhi faced a near-lockdown as authorities imposed a 24-hour internet blackout in response to protests called by the Gen Z-led Cockroach Janta Party. Despite the restrictions, protesters found innovative ways to communicate and organize, using Bluetooth technology to bypass the blackout and keep their movement alive. The Cockroach movement, named for its ability to survive and adapt, has become a symbol of youth-led resistance against government crackdowns. Demonstrators used mesh networking apps and offline tools to coordinate actions, highlighting the resilience of digital-age activism. The protests reflect growing discontent among young Indians over issues ranging from unemployment to censorship. FRANCE 24 reports on the day's events, capturing the ingenuity and determination of protesters who refused to be silenced by the blackout.