Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka remain in Tihar Jail after a Delhi court extended their judicial custody by two days on October 19. The development came after five days in custody following their detention over a protest at Jantar Mantar. On their way back to jail, Das described the situation as an “emergency” and alleged that there was no justice.
Why Were They Detained?
Das and Ranka were detained on October 13 after allegedly entering Jantar Mantar, which had recently been removed from the list of designated protest sites. The two were reportedly among a group of CJP members who crossed barricades, entered the premises, waved the national flag and raised slogans demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The protest was linked to opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Police initiated preventive proceedings, citing concerns about public order and alleged violations of previously executed peace bonds.
On October 14, a Special Executive Magistrate ordered five days of judicial custody for the two leaders, and they were sent to Tihar Jail.
Why Was Their Custody Extended?
On October 19, the leaders appeared before a Special Executive Magistrate at Mandir Marg police station. Delhi Police sought additional custody, arguing that their release could disturb public peace and tranquillity.
The magistrate extended their judicial custody until October 21. The court also raised concerns about their alleged breach of peace bonds and directed their legal team to submit written arguments.
Their lawyers opposed the extension, arguing that there was insufficient evidence to justify continued detention. The court also rejected the sureties presented on their behalf, citing discrepancies in identification documents and concerns about the guarantors’ ability to ensure the leaders’ appearance.
Why Did Das Say ‘We Are in an Emergency’?
After the hearing, a video showed Das speaking from a police vehicle as the two leaders were taken back to Tihar Jail.
“We are in an emergency. There is no justice. This is a police court,” he said, criticising the proceedings. The video was circulated by CJP and subsequently reported by multiple news outlets.
The remarks came amid growing controversy over the delay in the leaders’ release proceedings. A previous bail hearing had also been postponed after the magistrate handling the matter reportedly recused himself, citing a threat to his life. An FIR was registered in connection with the alleged threat.
What Happens Next?
The case is scheduled for further proceedings on October 21. The immediate question is whether the leaders can meet the court’s requirements and secure release.
For now, both remain in judicial custody, while their party and legal representatives continue to challenge the proceedings.