Indian youth-based party, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), staged new demonstrations in Mumbai and New Delhi in India on October 2, 2026 following reforms in India’s electoral lists. The protesting group was seeking explanations from Gyanesh Kumar, Chief Election Commissioner over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists.
As reported by various sources, supporters of the party rallied at Shivaji Park in defiance of reports that the permission for staging the protest had been denied. Protesters were demanding the resignation of Kumar and criticizing the manner in which revision of voter lists is being done. Sources estimated that thousands of people had taken part in the protest at Mumbai, whereas several personalities of the public had joined in the protest.
The whole issue revolves around the conduct of the SIR, which has been carried out in several regions of the country. Supporters of the procedure say that millions of eligible voters would be prevented from voting by being left off the electoral list, and hence they raise questions over transparency of the process. However, Election Commission says that all legal measures have been taken as per laws and instructions.
New Delhi witnessed restrictions at Jantar Mantar, where a number of groups had planned rallies. Deployment of security forces was made and access points of 11 metro stations were shut down. More than 700 protesters were arrested, among them were opposition political figures and leaders of some students’ organizations.
The CJP, which is headed by Abhijeet Dipke, stated that the organization was going to carry on with its campaign for the issue of voter lists. Previously, the organization managed to attract attention due to its protests in connection with youth and education issues.
Now the demonstrations are once again drawing attention to the issue of the revision of voter lists, electoral transparency and activity of the Election Commission. It can be assumed that further there will be more pressure on the authorities and political groups concerning the implementation of the new electoral lists.
