Delhi Braces for Major Protest as Thousands of Security Personnel Deployed
The "cockroach" movement, advocating for electoral reforms and the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner, faces a significant security crackdown in the Indian capital.
Parts of New Delhi have been placed under heavy security, with tens of thousands of security forces deployed in anticipation of a large-scale protest called for Saturday by the Gen Z-led "cockroach" movement. The protesters are demanding electoral reforms and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing allegations of voter list manipulation.
The Election Commission has refuted these claims, and Kumar has not yet responded to the demand for his resignation. Police have denied permission for the gathering, closing roads to the primary protest site, Jantar Mantar, with barricades. To further prevent assembly, train services to the city have been partially canceled, and numerous metro stations have been ordered shut.
Despite the restrictions, Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the online satirical movement Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), has stated that the CJP intends to march to Jantar Mantar regardless. Dipke addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X, saying, "If you want to jail us or even shoot us we are prepared."
The CJP's previous protest in the summer, which focused on education reforms, resulted in the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in July. The movement has continued its activism, with a rally in Mumbai last week pushing for Kumar's resignation, followed by a large demonstration in Bengaluru on Thursday.
Opposition parties, farmer organizations, and student groups are supporting Saturday's planned protests, which are being described as the largest in recent memory. CJP leaders have accused authorities of obstructing supporters from reaching Delhi.
Police official Nupur Prasad stated at a press conference that permission was denied due to the CJP's "short notice" for the protest, citing guidelines that require applications at least 10 days in advance. Prasad also mentioned the CJP's past non-compliance with "lawful directions." The denial was further justified by concerns for public safety, law and order, and traffic regulation.
The CJP, however, disputes the police's authority, asserting that they are legally only required to inform the police of their plans, not seek approval for gatherings. Police have deployed over 30,000 personnel and paramilitary forces in Delhi and urged citizens to avoid protest areas.