Political Party Alleges State Tactics Behind Leaders' Continued Custody

Detained Leaders

The Cockroach Janta Party states that authorities are purposely delaying the release of party leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka. Both individuals were taken into custody on October 13 after scaling locked gates to enter Jantar Mantar. This entry occurred after the area was denotified as a designated protest site. Following their detention, a court sent them to five days of judicial custody on October 14.

Legal Objections

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke accused the state of utilizing delaying tactics to keep the leaders behind bars without valid legal grounds. CJP legal head Ratna Singh added that a scheduled bail hearing before the Special Executive Magistrate derailed after proceedings shifted toward an unverified threatening message received by the magistrate. Additionally, four sureties furnished for the leaders were rejected on vague grounds.

Context

Jantar Mantar in New Delhi has historically served as a central venue for public demonstrations and protests. When a site loses its official status for gatherings, local authorities enforce restrictions on unauthorized entry.