Delhi Police Move Two CJP Protest Cases to Crime Branch

UPDATE - follow-up to Delhi Police transfers second case against Das, Ranka to Crime Branch: The Delhi Police shifted two separate cases involving Cockroach Janta Party figures Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka over to the Crime Branch on Tuesday. Officials familiar with the probe stated this decision aims to guarantee a fair inquiry because of the sensitive gravity of the files.

Background

Both FIRs trace back to an October 13 incident where fourteen members, including Mr. Das, Mr. Ranka, and Ajinkya Shinde, entered the restricted Jantar Mantar demonstration ground through private property. Investigators noted the venue is currently a denotified protest area, and the group allegedly blocked officers from performing their official duties when police stepped in.

Charges and Custody

The Connaught Place police station filed charges covering public servant disobedience, house trespass, and criminal conspiracy. Meanwhile, the Parliament Street station registered complaints for obstructing officers, causing hurt, assaulting public servants, and shared criminal intent under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Mr. Das and Mr. Ranka remain held under judicial custody, whereas authorities placed Mr. Shinde on a six-month good behaviour bond worth ₹5,000.

Context

Moving major investigations from local police stations to specialised branches like the Crime Branch is a standard step for high-profile matters to ensure neutrality. Jantar Mantar has historically served as a prominent site for public demonstrations in the capital before administrative changes altered its status.