Mumbai became the starting point of the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) latest “Jail Bharo Andolan” on Friday, with thousands gathering at Shivaji Park to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protest was held despite Mumbai Police denying permission, citing restrictions on gatherings at the venue.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke had earlier issued a 48-hour deadline for Kumar to resign and announced renewed protests from October 2 if the demand was not met. At Shivaji Park, Dipke reiterated the demand and challenged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to face the movement. The agitation is linked by the CJP to concerns over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and alleged irregularities in the election process. The Election Commission and government have denied wrongdoing.
The Mumbai demonstration drew several prominent film personalities. Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, actor Shabana Azmi and composer-singer Vishal Dadlani were among those seen at the protest. Indian Express also reported participation by filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj and other public figures. Shah was welcomed by Dipke on stage.
Police deployed additional security around Shivaji Park as crowds increased through the afternoon, with protesters carrying national flags and placards and raising slogans. Reports put attendance at thousands.
The CJP has announced plans to take its agitation to Kolkata, Bengaluru and Goa, followed by another demonstration at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar later this month. Meanwhile, a separate group identifying itself as “Gen Next Mumbai” staged a counter-protest in the city, raising slogans against Dipke and other CJP leaders there.
