CJP leaders Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka challenge custody order in Delhi High Court

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka have moved the Delhi High Court challenging the extension of their judicial custody, after a Special Executive Magistrate ordered that they remain in custody for another two days on October 19.

Das and Ranka were detained on October 13 for allegedly climbing the locked gates of Jantar Mantar while waving the national flag. The site had earlier been de-notified as a designated protest venue. A day later, on October 14, they were sent to five days of judicial custody.

Also Read:Cockroach Janta Party's current status: Founder Abhijeet Dipke tries to hold ground as Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka remain in custody


On October 19, a Special Executive Magistrate extended their judicial custody by another two days. They are expected to be produced before the magistrate again on Wednesday, October 21.

The CJP has questioned the proceedings, accusing authorities of using legal provisions to keep its leaders behind bars. Ratna Singh, who heads the party's legal affairs wing, questioned why the sureties were rejected and alleged that the law was being misused.

The party, which first gained attention during protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination, has since turned its focus to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Its campaign has also brought it into conflict with authorities over restrictions on protests in Delhi.

CJP has demanded the immediate release of Das and Ranka. Party founder Abhijeet Dipke, meanwhile, has continued to rally support for the detained leaders and question the restrictions imposed on demonstrations in the national capital.

In a social media post, Dipke spoke about the careers and financial security the two had given up to join the movement. He praised their decision to fight for people beyond their own families and immediate circles, describing it as central to what their activism stood for.

Dipke has also said the party would pursue the matter before higher judicial forums to challenge the extension of their custody.