Time out for CJP? Why Abhijeet Dipke wants the agitation halted until Diwali

New Delhi: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) appears ready to step back from the streets, at least for the festive season. In a 16-minute video address on Dussehra, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke urged party workers to take a step back and spend time at home. The emotional message highlighted the strain recent agitations have placed on members and their households, especially with co-convenors Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das currently in judicial custody.

The CJP’s momentum slowed down sharply following the recent detention of Dipke and the arrest of Ranka and Das, who were picked up after defying orders at Jantar Mantar. Their absence was clearly felt on 16 October, when a planned Tiranga march through Connaught Place unravelled without its key planners on ground.

Acknowledging the toll the movement has taken, Dipke said, “For a few days, spend time with your families. Festivals are coming, and after everything that has happened in the last few days, your family will be very worried, just as my family is worried, Ashutosh’s family is worried, Saurav’s family is worried.”

“It is even harder for our families than for us. Because this was not their choice. The fight we’re putting up was our decision, but its consequences are falling on our families too,” he added.

Behind the decision to hit the brakes

The practical reality on ground is Ranka and Das were the main organisers behind CJP’s public mobilisations. With both behind bars, leading large crowds has become difficult. The leadership seems hopeful that the legal process will allow the duo out around Diwali, offering an opportunity to regroup and plan their next moves properly.

Political optics also play a role. With political opponents drawing parallels between street demonstrations and unrest seen abroad, and talks around alleged regime-change attempts making news, the CJP appears cautious about staying clear of fresh controversies while its leadership is stretched thin.

From social media trend to relentless agitations

Formed in mid-May following controversial judicial remarks, the CJP grew rapidly on digital platforms before hitting the ground in June. Teaming up with activist Sonam Wangchuk, the group staged a 36-day sit-in over alleged NEET irregularities, calling off the stir only after the Union Education Minister stepped down.

The outfit soon followed this up with their pan-India ‘School Theek Karo’ drive in August, tackling basic infrastructure deficits, before moving on to demand the Chief Election Commissioner’s resignation in late September. Having kept the authorities alert for five straight months, the party now heads into Diwali on pause, leaving everyone watching to see what direction it takes once the festivities wind down.