Delhi High Court Seeks Probe Into Cockroach Janta Party Protest

Court Admits PIL on Jantar Mantar Protest

The Delhi High Court on Thursday agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a formal investigation into the recent protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar. The court's decision came amid growing concerns over the methods and scale of the demonstration.

The petitioner argued that the protest, which drew hundreds of participants, required a thorough inquiry to determine if any laws were broken. The court has not yet set a date for the next hearing.

Government Considers Cancelling Passports

According to reports, the government may cancel the passports of individuals found to have been involved in violence during the CJP protest. Sources told The Times of India that authorities are compiling a list of suspects based on video footage and witness statements.

This step, if implemented, would mark a significant escalation in the state's response. Officials have not yet confirmed the number of people who could be affected or the specific charges they might face.

Police Detain Students Heading to Protest Site

Delhi Police stopped several groups of students traveling in autorickshaws to Jantar Mantar on Thursday. Officers said they were acting on intelligence that the students intended to join the CJP demonstration.

The students were held at a checkpoint near Connaught Place and later released after questioning. No arrests were made, but the incident has raised questions about the policing of peaceful assembly in the capital.

Viral Video Misidentified as CJP Violence

Meanwhile, fact-checkers have flagged an unrelated video being shared online as footage of Nihang Sikhs using swords during the CJP protest. The Quint reported that the clip is from a different event and has no connection to the Cockroach Janta Party.

This misinformation has added to the confusion surrounding the protest, which has already sparked debate on social media and in political circles.

The Cockroach Janta Party Movement

The CJP describes itself as a grassroots movement challenging India's established political order. The group's protest at Jantar Mantar last week drew attention for its unconventional tactics and rhetoric.

AP News reported that the movement has gained traction among young voters disillusioned with mainstream parties. Critics, however, have accused the CJP of disruptive behaviour and inciting violence.

The Delhi Police have registered multiple cases related to the protest, including charges of rioting and unlawful assembly. Investigations are ongoing.

What happens next depends on the High Court's ruling on the PIL and the government's decision on passport cancellations. The CJP has announced plans for another rally next month.