Security arrangements at the historic Jantar Mantar in New Delhi have been drastically reinforced following a fresh protest threat issued by the Cockroach Janta Party. In response to potential mass gatherings and demonstrations, Delhi Police has placed the entire area under strict security control. Heavy iron barricades positioned on both sides of the main protest site have been welded together to create an impenetrable barrier. To ensure round-the-clock vigil and maintain public order, a company of the Rapid Action Force alongside local police personnel has been permanently stationed at the site.
Renewed Protest Warning and Core Demands
The heightened security deployment follows an ultimatum delivered by the Cockroach Janta Party, warning that they will resume their agitation if their conditions are not met. The organization has insisted on the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all FIRs registered against its participating activists and students. Referencing their previous understanding reached on July 25, the group accused central authorities of failing to honor their commitments regarding immunity from legal proceedings. Their demands include dropping all active cases, releasing all detained protesters without delay, and halting fresh criminal registrations.
Spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka Alleges Breach of Agreement
Speaking on Tuesday, Cockroach Janta Party spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka leveled severe allegations against the central government, asserting a complete breach of the July 25 agreement. Ashutosh Ranka claimed that hundreds of students have been targeted and arrested across states governed by the BJP. He urged central authorities to enforce an immediate freeze on new criminal cases being filed by the Delhi Police, central law enforcement agencies, and police forces in BJP-ruled states. Furthermore, Ashutosh Ranka demanded the immediate official publication and release of the signed July 25 agreement document.
Background of the 36 Day Protest and Resignation
Prior to the current standoff, Jantar Mantar had witnessed an intense 36-day continuous demonstration organized by the Cockroach Janta Party. The primary objective of that prolonged movement was to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protest was formally called off on July 25 only after Dharmendra Pradhan submitted his resignation from the post of Union Education Minister. However, allegations of unfulfilled post-resignation promises have once again reignited tensions between the protesters and law enforcement.
Legal Aid Cell Launch and Support from Kapil Sibal
To support activists facing prosecution, the Cockroach Janta Party announced the creation of a nationwide legal assistance framework, alongside launching an online evidence gathering platform titled SAAKSHI. Adding substantial weight to their defense efforts, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal announced the creation of a 1 crore rupees legal aid fund. This fund is specifically designated to provide comprehensive legal advice, representation, and court assistance to students and demonstrators currently facing criminal charges across various jurisdictions.
