CJP Spokespersons Sent to 5-Day Judicial Custody Over Jantar Mantar Protest
Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka Lodged in Tihar Jail; Ajinkya Shinde Released on Personal Bond
New Delhi: A Special Executive Magistrate on Wednesday remanded Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) chief spokesperson Saurav Das and national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka to five days of judicial custody following a protest at Jantar Mantar. Both leaders have been lodged in Tihar Jail, while fellow party leader Ajinkya Shinde was released on a personal bond.
The leaders were produced before the magistrate at Mandir Marg Police Station around 8:30 am. According to their counsel, advocate Abhisht Hela, Delhi Police accused them of criminal trespass, violating prohibitory orders and obstructing public servants in the discharge of their duties.
Police reportedly argued that Das and Ranka had violated the conditions of a peace bond and could commit
further offences if released. The prosecution also alleged that they had called on supporters to breach barricades at the restricted venue.
The detentions followed an incident early Tuesday in which CJP leaders allegedly scaled locked perimeter gates at Jantar Mantar, unfurled the national flag and raised slogans demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke criticised the remand order, alleging that the action targeted dissent.
The development comes after Jantar Mantar was reportedly de-notified as an authorised protest venue, with future demonstrations redirected to designated locations, including Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in Shahdara.
