The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has expanded its list of demands as its nationwide protest entered Day 32, with the organisation now insisting that no FIRs or legal action should be taken against people who participated in the July 20 ‘Chalo Sansad’ protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
Addressing supporters on Wednesday, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka announced that the movement now has four key demands, adding that the organisation would stand by protesters facing legal action.
“Many people are worried despite participating peacefully in the protest. We will ensure that no legal action is taken against peaceful protesters. If required, we will get arrested before you do,” Ranka said while addressing the gathering.
CJP’s four demands
According to the organisation, its revised list of demands includes:
- Immediate release of activist Sonam Wangchuk
- Resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
- ₹1 crore compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide over examination-related issues
- Withdrawal of FIRs and legal action against those who peacefully participated in the July 20 protest
The latest demand comes amid concerns among demonstrators over possible police cases following the march towards Parliament earlier this week.
Ranka claims movement has grown despite police action
Ranka said attempts to suppress the protest had instead strengthened the movement.
“Today marks 32 days of our protest. Some believed students in this country could not sustain a movement. They thought the protest would end after the events of July 20 or after tents were removed. Instead, it has become much bigger,” he said.
Calling it a decisive phase of the agitation, he alleged that the government’s handling of the protest had drawn public attention across the country.
He also criticised the Delhi Police’s response during the July 20 demonstration, claiming that images and videos of the police action had been seen around the world.
Talks with Centre remain inconclusive
The announcement comes two days after the Centre held its first formal meeting with CJP representatives since the protests intensified.
On Monday, Union Minister JP Nadda met CJP leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das at his residence in New Delhi after the government reportedly reached out for discussions.
Following the meeting, CJP leaders said they submitted a written memorandum outlining their demands. According to the organisation, Nadda sought additional time to consult the BJP leadership before responding to the issues raised.
At the time of the meeting, the group’s demands were limited to Wangchuk’s release, Pradhan’s resignation and financial compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide. The demand seeking protection from legal action has now been formally added.
The protest continues at Jantar Mantar, with CJP leaders maintaining that demonstrations will continue until the government responds to their demands.
