The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has come under criticism after videos showing some of its leaders celebrating the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan went viral on social media. The clips, described online as a "resignation party" or "victory party," have drawn criticism from both supporters and opponents of the student-led movement.
The controversy comes days after the CJP suspended its protest following Pradhan's resignation, while continuing to raise concerns over alleged police action against protesters in several states.
The videos, widely shared across social media platforms, appear to show CJP leaders, including spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, dancing to Bollywood songs at what appears to be a hotel banquet hall.
The visuals sparked criticism from some supporters of the movement, who argued that celebrations were inappropriate while protesters continue to face arrests and legal action in states including Bihar, West Bengal and Assam.
Responding to the criticism, CJP spokesperson Saurav Das defended the celebrations, describing them as reflective of contemporary youth culture.
In a post on X, Das wrote:
"We can sit on the road for as long as it takes. We can protest while dancing. We can organise while sipping cold coffee. That's just how this generation is. Confident, creative, resilient, and impossible to stereotype."
He further said that the government and some television anchors did not understand the "language of Gen Z and younger generations," adding that critics would have to accept changing forms of political expression.
The videos also drew criticism from political commentators and legal experts.
Senior Supreme Court advocate Mahesh Jethmalani questioned the optics of the celebration and asked who had funded the travel, accommodation, equipment and logistics associated with the protests.
Several social media users also criticised the leadership, arguing that the celebrations appeared insensitive while many protesters were reportedly facing arrests, detention and legal proceedings.
Separately, Das issued a statement expressing concern over reports that students and volunteers associated with the movement had been detained or arrested.
"We are deeply concerned by multiple reports reaching us of students and other protesters being targeted, detained, or arrested by various state agencies, particularly in Assam, West Bengal, and Bihar," he said.
He added that the CJP's legal team was coordinating with lawyers in different states to provide legal assistance and seek the release of those detained.
Das also urged the Centre to honour what the organisation says were assurances made during recent discussions, including providing a written commitment regarding action against protesters.
Sources: The print