Delhi Court Extends Custody of Jailed CJP Leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka

Two youth political leaders have seen their jail time prolonged as legal battles continue over a trespass case at a prominent national protest venue. A Special Executive Magistrate ordered a two-day extension in the judicial custody of Cockroach Janata Party co-convenors Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka on Monday.

The Arrest And Case Transfer

The pair has remained behind bars since October 13 following an incident at Jantar Mantar, which had been de-notified as a gathering place just a day prior. Police intervention occurred after Ashu Ranka posted a video online capturing himself, Das, and national organisation in-charge Ajinkya Shinde scaling locked gates to enter the grounds. Authorities have now transferred the entire trespass investigation to the Crime Branch.

Legal Arguments And Reactions

Delhi Police pushed for continued detention by arguing that freeing the men could ruin local peace and order, pointing to fears they might repeat an offense. Defense lawyers pushed back against this claim, stating zero proof existed that the youth posed any danger. Party founder Abhijeet Dipke lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media, charging that the administration relies on state forces to harass young critics and delay court hearings.

Context

Jantar Mantar in New Delhi has historically served as a central hub for public demonstrations, making restrictions and security clampdowns there a frequent flashpoint between activists and law enforcement. The Cockroach Janata Party operates as a lesser-known political outfit whose members often use direct action tactics to draw public attention to their causes.