Mumbai Police File FIR Against CJP Leaders for Protest Demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s Resignation

The Mumbai Police have initiated legal action against leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and over 400 unidentified individuals following a protest that occurred on Friday, aimed at calling for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The protest, organized by the fledgling political group, took place in Mumbai despite prior denial of permission by the authorities.

Abhijeet Dipke, the founder of CJP, along with convenors Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das, led the demonstration at Shivaji Park. Police had previously rejected their request for a gathering at the site on September 27, which prompted Dipke to declare a “jail bharo andolan,” a mass movement encouraging participants to voluntarily face arrest. However, no arrests were made during the actual protest.

This demonstration in Mumbai aligned with a significant protest occurring simultaneously at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where law enforcement detained more than 700 individuals involved in a similar outcry against the Election Commission. Protesters across both cities expressed their grievances regarding the Commission’s operations, particularly criticizing its management of the special intensive revision of electoral rolls.

In response to the Mumbai protest, police stated that the organizers are facing charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Maharashtra Police Act, which pertain to unlawful assembly and willful disobedience of orders issued by public officials. A police officer confirmed that no arrests have been made so far in connection with the protest.

The incident underscores a growing concern among various political factions regarding the functioning of the Election Commission in India. Critics argue that the body needs to enhance its transparency and accountability, particularly in light of recent electoral procedures. The CJP’s mobilization against CEC Gyanesh Kumar reflects a broader sentiment among citizens who are increasingly vocal about their demands for electoral integrity and democratic accountability.

Source: scroll.in