Delhi Protesters Persist After Leaders Freed, Demand Election Commissioner's Resignation


The Gen‑Z‑led Cockroach Janta Party, known as the CJP, has resumed marches in Delhi after its key figures were released from police custody. The group, which gained traction in May when a founder referenced a court comment about “cockroaches,” is demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid claims of voter roll manipulation favouring the ruling BJP.


Saturday saw about 7,000 demonstrators detained by authorities; on Sunday police released the leaders on a magistrate’s order that they cease acts of “breach of peace” for a year. In response, CJP spokesperson Abhijeet Dipke said the party would not back down, further calling the condition a political stunt. Leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka declared the bill does not bar peaceful protest at the constitutional rally site of Jantar Mantar.


Central Delhi experienced a temporary lockdown on Sunday, with roadblocks and a curfew that shut shops, restaurants, and metro service. A Supreme Court hearing ordered the restoration of internet and transport services in the city, stressing that detentions must be legal and that public movement should not be restricted without due cause.


The CJP’s bid for electoral reform echoes earlier summer protests over education policy. While the education minister stepped down following earlier demands, the current movement focuses on voter rights and the integrity of India’s electoral process.


Photos  Police detain a demonstrator in Delhi Detained protester holds a placard demanding “Gyanesh must go!”