Anti-CEC protest LIVE | CJP's legal head Ratna Singh alleges Delhi Police arrested Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ajinkya Shinde in Jantar Mantar case

On Tuesday, Delhi Police lodged a formal complaint against Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ajinkya Shinde, members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The complaint alleges that the three individuals entered the Jantar Mantar precinct in Delhi without the required authorization, violating local regulations that govern public demonstrations. Police officials said the FIR was filed after a routine check revealed that the activists had set up a makeshift stage and were distributing pamphlets that called for a boycott of the Central Election Commission.

The incident occurred during a larger anti‑CEC rally that attracted dozens of participants from several opposition groups. Jantar Mantar, a historic site often used for political protests, has seen heightened security measures in recent months due to concerns about public safety and the potential for clashes. The CJP, a relatively new party that positions itself as a voice for disenfranchised voters, has been vocal about alleged irregularities in upcoming elections. Their legal head, Ratna Singh, responded to the arrests by claiming that the police action was intended to deter dissent and suppress legitimate criticism of the election process.

Legal experts note that the FIR could lead to charges of unlawful assembly and trespass, but they also point out that the authorities must demonstrate that the protest violated specific statutes. For readers in India, the case highlights the tension between the right to protest and the state's responsibility to maintain order in high‑profile public spaces. The outcome may influence how future demonstrations are managed, especially those that target electoral bodies, and could set a precedent for the treatment of smaller political parties seeking media attention.