CJP Leaders Remanded to Five Days’ Judicial Custody After Preventive Arrest at Jantar Mantar
Two leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, have been remanded to five days of judicial custody by a Special Executive Magistrate’s court in Delhi following their preventive arrest over an alleged unauthorised entry into the Jantar Mantar protest area.
The action followed an incident on October 13, when the party leaders and other members allegedly entered the area despite restrictions after Jantar Mantar was denotified as an authorised protest site. According to reports, the group crossed barricades and raised slogans while carrying the Indian national flag.
Delhi Police registered a case over allegations including unlawful assembly, disobedience of official orders and obstruction of police personnel. The authorities also cited concerns over alleged violations of earlier undertakings to maintain public peace.
The police action came amid continuing protests by CJP members and other groups demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities associated with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Election Commission has denied allegations of political bias.
Another CJP leader, Ajinkya Shinde, who was detained in connection with the incident, was released on a personal bond, according to media reports. The proceedings against the other two leaders resulted in their remand to judicial custody for five days.
The case has renewed debate over access to designated protest venues and the limits imposed on demonstrations in the national capital. Jantar Mantar has historically served as an important location for public protests, making the recent restrictions a significant issue for groups seeking to demonstrate near the seat of government.
The allegations against the CJP leaders remain subject to legal proceedings. The latest developments are expected to draw further attention to the balance between maintaining public order and protecting the right to peaceful assembly.
