The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has announced a “jail bharo” protest in Mumbai after police denied permission for its planned demonstration at Shivaji Park on October 2. The group says the protest is linked to its demand for the removal of India’s Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar.
Police Deny Permission
CJP had sought permission to hold a public gathering at Shivaji Park on Gandhi Jayanti. Mumbai Police rejected the request, saying the location is not permitted for protest demonstrations. Police also cited a 2013 Bombay High Court ruling concerning the use of Shivaji Park.
Authorities also pointed to the absence of required permissions from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Police said the residential area could face noise pollution and traffic problems, while nearby hospitals could also be affected by a large gathering.
CJP Announces Jail Protest
Following the rejection, CJP leader Abhijit Dipke said the organization would instead begin a “jail bharo” campaign on October 2. He said members were prepared to face arrest and questioned how many people Mumbai’s jails could accommodate.
The party had earlier given the chief election commissioner 48 hours to resign, alleging that the Election Commission was being used to serve the interests of the ruling BJP. CJP had said that failure to resign would lead to a new phase of its nationwide protest movement.
Arrests in Assam
The organization has also faced action in Assam. CJP leader Ashutosh Ranka and several local members were reportedly arrested while participating in a campaign focused on improving schools. Dipke said he would travel to Assam with other supporters if Ranka was not released.
Sonam Wangchuk Supports the Movement
Ladakh-based environmental activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk has expressed support for CJP’s broader campaign. He said India needs a transparent and impartial electoral process and reiterated his principled support for the movement.
The next steps of the protest in Mumbai remain uncertain after permission for the Shivaji Park gathering was denied.
