Delhi Police have detained Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) activists Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka, and others for allegedly trespassing at the Jantar Mantar protest site in New Delhi. The arrests were made as part of a preventive custody operation, according to sources within the police.

The activists were reportedly taken into custody during their attempt to enter the site, which has recently been de-notified as a designated protest venue. Ratna Singh, the head of the group’s legal team, announced that the activists would be presented before a magistrate on Wednesday. She confirmed that they were taken to Parliament Street Police Station and faced charges including trespass and obstruction of a public official’s duty.

Singh indicated that there is a possibility of the activists being placed in judicial custody at Tihar Jail. Singh also expressed concerns regarding the treatment of the activists, stating that they were not permitted to meet their lawyers until late at night. The activists were reportedly transported to the police station in a private van at 3 AM.

Allegations Against Delhi Police

Ratna Singh has accused the Delhi Police of acting arbitrarily and following directives from higher authorities in their handling of the CJP activists. She claimed that the activists were not informed of the reasons for their detention and were denied access to legal counsel for nearly 24 hours. Singh described the situation as indicative of a troubling pattern of police behaviour that prioritises orders from above over established legal protocols.

Singh further alleged that police personnel had repeatedly denied access not only to volunteers but also to lawyers who had arrived to assist the detained activists. She questioned the legitimacy of the orders given to the police, suggesting that they undermine the law itself. This has raised concerns about the accountability of the police in such situations.

In her statements, Singh highlighted a broader issue regarding the treatment of peaceful protesters in the capital. She noted that while criminals appear to operate freely, those engaging in non-violent demonstrations are being obstructed. Singh emphasised the importance of designated protest sites and expressed alarm over the de-notification of Jantar Mantar, which has historically been a significant venue for public demonstrations.

Context of the Protests

The arrests occur amid ongoing protests by the CJP and various opposition parties against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. The activists’ attempt to enter Jantar Mantar was part of these larger protests, which have gained traction in recent weeks.

Authorities had de-notified Jantar Mantar as a designated protest venue just prior to the arrests, designating alternative locations such as Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground in east Delhi for future demonstrations. This decision was made following recommendations from a committee established by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to assess suitable locations for public protests.

The de-notification of Jantar Mantar has raised concerns among activists and opposition leaders about the diminishing spaces available for public dissent. As the situation unfolds, the response of the Delhi Police and the government will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics of the ongoing protests.

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