Delhi Police used tear gas and lathi-charges on Monday to disperse thousands [1] of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) supporters marching toward Parliament.
The clash marks a significant escalation in tensions between the CJP and the government as the party attempts to force its demands into the legislative agenda during the opening of the Monsoon Session.
The "Chalo Sansad" march began at Jantar Mantar in central Delhi. Protesters attempted to move from the site toward the Parliament building despite the existence of prohibitory orders [1, 2]. The Delhi Police, including the Rapid Action Force, moved to block the route, leading to violent confrontations between officers and demonstrators [1, 2].
Security forces deployed tear gas and conducted lathi-charges to push the crowd back and maintain the perimeter around the government buildings [1, 2]. The unrest occurred as the CJP sought to highlight its grievances during the high-profile legislative session.
Reports regarding the status of CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke are contradictory. One report said that Dipke was detained during the crackdown [1]. However, a separate report said that the founder was not detained or arrested [2].
Local authorities said that the force used was necessary to prevent a breach of the prohibited zone. The CJP organizers had planned the march specifically to coincide with the Monsoon Session to ensure maximum visibility for their cause [1, 2].
“Delhi Police used tear gas and lathi-charges on Monday to disperse thousands of Cockroach Janta Party supporters.”
The violence underscores the volatility of political protests in Delhi during parliamentary sessions. By attempting to bypass prohibitory orders, the CJP is testing the boundaries of public assembly laws, while the police response reflects a strict adherence to security protocols surrounding the seat of government.
