Leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, have approached the Delhi High Court for an urgent hearing regarding the extension of their judicial custody. This request was made on Tuesday, October 17, 2026, as the court is currently closed for the Dussehra vacation. The leaders are seeking a night hearing to address their situation promptly.

Their judicial remand was extended by a newly appointed special executive magistrate at the Mandir Marg police station on October 16, 2026. This extension was for an additional two days following their appearance before the magistrate. The two leaders were initially taken into custody on October 13, 2026, after reportedly climbing over a locked gate to enter Jantar Mantar, which had been denotified as a designated protest site.

Details of the Incident

According to reports, Das and Ranka, along with other CJP members, displayed the national flag at Jantar Mantar and shouted slogans against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar before their arrest. Their actions led to a preventive arrest, raising questions about the legality of their detention. The CJP claims that the circumstances surrounding their arrest and subsequent custody are politically motivated.

CJP’s legal affairs head, Ratna Singh, expressed concern over the situation, stating that the leaders should not be confined for even a moment longer than necessary. Singh emphasised that their liberty should not be compromised due to alleged political manoeuvring. The CJP has accused authorities of deliberately delaying bail proceedings to hinder the release of Das and Ranka.

The leaders’ request for an urgent night hearing underscores the urgency they feel regarding their situation. They aim to contest the extension of their custody swiftly, as they believe their rights are being infringed upon. The CJP’s ongoing efforts reflect a broader concern about the treatment of political activists in the country.

Legal Proceedings and Public Response

The legal proceedings surrounding the case have garnered attention from various quarters, with many observers noting the implications for civil liberties and political dissent in India. The CJP’s allegations of political interference in the judicial process have raised eyebrows among legal experts and human rights advocates alike.

As the situation develops, public interest in the case is likely to grow, particularly among those who advocate for the rights of political activists. The CJP’s actions, including the display of the national flag and vocal protests, highlight the ongoing tensions between government authorities and dissenting voices in the political landscape.

In the coming days, the Delhi High Court’s response to the request for a night hearing will be crucial in determining the next steps for Das and Ranka. Their case may set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future, particularly regarding the balance between maintaining public order and respecting the rights of individuals to express their views.

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