CJP Gives Delhi Police 24-Hour Deadline to Allow Peaceful Protest at Jantar Mantar

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das reached Parliament Street Police Station on Monday, October 12, to seek permission for a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar.

Ranka said the party was asking Delhi Police to specify when the demonstration could take place. He said CJP was ready to gather at the designated protest site within 24 hours if the police provided a date.

Ranka also criticised the security restrictions in Delhi, saying the measures were causing inconvenience to traders, shopkeepers and ordinary residents during the festive season.

‘We Will Not Let the Matter Remain Pending’

CJP co-founder Saurav Das said peaceful protest was a constitutional right and urged the police to communicate a clear decision.

He said the party was giving the authorities 24 hours to respond and would announce its next step if no date and time were provided.

The party's demand comes after Delhi Police denied permission for its October 10 demonstration at Jantar Mantar. Police had cited the short notice given by organisers, concerns about public safety and traffic, and alleged non-compliance with directions during an earlier protest.

What Does the Law Say?

Article 19 of the Constitution protects the rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly, subject to reasonable restrictions permitted by law. This means citizens can peacefully protest, but authorities may regulate demonstrations to protect public order and public safety.

The key question is whether the police can provide a lawful and practical arrangement for the proposed gathering. CJP says it is willing to protest at the designated site and wants the authorities to fix a date. Police concerns about security and traffic must also be considered.

What happens next: The 24-hour deadline puts the focus on Delhi Police's response. Any protest must remain peaceful and comply with lawful directions, while restrictions on assembly should be based on the applicable rules and the circumstances.