Authorities in New Delhi have increased security measures following a call for a protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in response to the jailing of two of its activists. Thousands of additional police officers were deployed in the capital on Friday as the government prepared for potential confrontations. The youth-led CJP movement has organized a series of protests in recent weeks, demanding the resignation of India’s election chief. The upcoming rally is scheduled for 5pm local time at Central Park, where the park has been closed by authorities citing 'administrative reasons' and metal barricades have been set up at key intersections.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke indicated that police may attempt to arrest him prior to the protest but stated that he and his supporters are 'not afraid' and are 'ready' to go to jail. In a social media post, Dipke criticized the government for what he described as hypocrisy and condemned the police crackdowns against the movement. He remarked that the current ruling party, which spent decades organizing protests while in opposition, might not have attained power had they faced similar restrictions and intimidation.
The CJP has been conducting almost daily demonstrations this month, calling for electoral reforms and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, who oversaw the removal of over 130 million names from the electoral roll. The CJP accuses him of voter fraud, while election authorities assert that the changes were necessary to eliminate duplicate, deceased, and fraudulent entries.
Founded in May, the CJP emerged amid frustrations over exam paper leaks and the challenging job market for India's youth. The movement has gained traction among Gen Z, who feel marginalized during the ongoing unemployment crisis under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The CJP's protests have already led to the resignation of the education minister. The political opposition has shown support for the protests, placing increasing pressure on Modi, with analysts suggesting he is facing his most significant crisis since taking office in 2014.