New Delhi, October 14, 2026: The Delhi protest involving the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has taken a new turn, with party leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das being sent to five days of judicial custody and lodged in Tihar Jail. Their associate, Ajinkya Shinde, has been released on a personal bond, according to a report by the Press Trust of India (PTI).
Why Were the CJP Leaders Detained?
The three leaders were detained by Delhi Police on October 13 after allegedly entering the Jantar Mantar area without authorisation. According to police, the group crossed barricades to enter the site, which had recently been denotified as a designated protest venue. The protesters reportedly raised slogans demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Police have cited alleged trespassing, violation of prohibitory orders, breach of peace bonds and obstruction of public servants in connection with the case. Ranka and Das had reportedly signed peace bonds following an earlier detention. The allegations are part of the ongoing legal proceedings and have not been established as proven offences.
Ajinkya Shinde Released on Personal Bond
Shinde was released after agreeing to maintain peace and good behaviour for six months. Police said his release involved a personal bond and a surety of ₹5,000. Meanwhile, Ranka and Das will remain in judicial custody for the period ordered by the Executive Magistrate.
CJP Protest Continues to Draw Attention
The action has brought renewed attention to the CJP-led protest and the restrictions around demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. The party has maintained its position on continuing its agitation, while police have justified their action by citing alleged repeated violations.
The case has also raised questions about the balance between maintaining public order and allowing citizens to express dissent through peaceful protests.