Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has rejected comparisons between the party’s student-led protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and the 2024 student movement in Bangladesh, saying the two situations are fundamentally different.
His remarks came in response to comments by exiled Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasreen, who said the CJP protest reminded her of the protests in Bangladesh that eventually led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government.
‘We Are Different,’ Says Dipke
Responding to Nasreen’s remarks, Dipke said comparisons with movements in Bangladesh or Nepal were being used to “defame” the satirical political outfit.
“We are different.”
He added that the CJP’s focus remains on issues affecting students and education, and that the organisation has no connection with the developments referred to by Nasreen.
What Did Taslima Nasreen Say?
Speaking about the CJP protest, Taslima Nasreen said she was reminded of the 2024 student movement in Bangladesh.
According to her, the protests in Bangladesh initially appeared to focus on the quota system but later evolved into a broader political movement that resulted in the removal of the then government.
Nasreen also expressed her views on the developments that followed, saying the outcome had not been positive for Bangladesh.
Her remarks reflected her personal assessment of the events.
Dipke Warns of Fresh Protest
Dipke also warned that the CJP could resume protests if the Centre does not implement the commitments made after the 37-day sit-in at Jantar Mantar.
He said one of the key demands—₹1 crore compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide following the paper leak controversy—has not yet been fulfilled.
According to Dipke, if the agreed commitments are not implemented, the organisation may return to protest.
Compensation Demand Still Pending
The CJP founder claimed that none of the affected families had received the promised compensation.
He criticised the government’s reported position that procedural rules were being examined before any payment could be made, questioning the delay in implementing the demand.
Resignation Demand Met, But New Appointment Criticised
Dipke noted that one of the CJP’s principal demands—the resignation of the then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan—had been met.
However, he said he does not support the appointment of Pralhad Joshi as the new Education Minister, expressing his disagreement with the decision and citing past controversies.
These remarks reflect Dipke’s views.
Background of the Jantar Mantar Protest
The CJP-led protest at Jantar Mantar lasted 37 days and focused on issues linked to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak.
The protest concluded after the Centre agreed to several demands raised by the organisation, including assurances regarding certain issues. Dipke has now said the implementation of those commitments remains under watch.
