The Delhi High Court on Thursday declined to stop a protest planned by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Central Park in Connaught Place on Friday, October 16. The court recorded an assurance from Delhi Police that all necessary steps would be taken to regulate the gathering and maintain public order.
The protest has been called by CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke under the slogan “Lehra Do Tiranga”, with supporters urged to gather carrying the national flag. The demonstration follows the detention and judicial custody of party leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka.
The court’s decision does not amount to unconditional approval of every activity planned by the organisers. Instead, it leaves the authorities responsible for managing the gathering in accordance with the law.
Why Was the High Court Approached?
The court was hearing a public interest litigation filed by Anil Kumar Gupta, a licensed street vendor at Palika Bazar in Connaught Place.
Gupta argued that a protest at Central Park could disrupt traffic, restrict pedestrian access and affect traders’ livelihoods during a busy period. He also questioned the choice of venue, arguing that Connaught Place is not among the officially designated locations for public demonstrations.
The petitioner said the plea was not intended to deny the right to peaceful protest but to ensure compliance with existing restrictions and protect access to commercial areas.
Representing the authorities, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma assured the court that Delhi Police would take appropriate measures to regulate the gathering and address the concerns raised by the petitioner.
What Did the Court Say?
A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma recorded the police assurance. The court declined to issue the requested order directly prohibiting the demonstration.
According to legal reporting, the court also made clear that the relevant respondent would include CJP office-bearers and associated members, rather than only the party founder.
The matter has been listed for further consideration on November 3. The court’s order leaves room for authorities to take lawful action if the gathering breaches applicable restrictions.
Why Is CJP Planning the Protest?
CJP announced the demonstration after its leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were sent to five days of judicial custody.
The two leaders were arrested over allegations that they entered Jantar Mantar without authorisation, breached peace-bond conditions and obstructed police personnel. These allegations remain subject to the relevant legal proceedings.
Dipke has urged supporters to gather with the national flag, presenting the demonstration as a response to the detention of party members. The planned event comes amid wider protests and political disagreements concerning electoral-roll revisions and the functioning of the Election Commission.
The CJP and opposition groups have alleged that voter-list changes have unfairly affected sections of the electorate. The Election Commission and the BJP have rejected allegations of political manipulation.
Connaught Place Braces for Possible Disruption
Connaught Place is one of New Delhi’s major commercial districts, attracting shoppers, office workers, visitors and tourists. A large demonstration could require traffic diversions, police deployment and restrictions around Central Park.
Police will need to balance public safety and access to nearby businesses with the organisers’ ability to hold a gathering within the law.
Authorities may impose reasonable operational controls, including barricades and route management, depending on the size and conduct of the crowd. Any restrictions would need to be consistent with applicable legal requirements and official directions.
Residents and visitors planning to travel through central Delhi on Friday should check police traffic advisories before setting out.
What Happens Next?
The immediate focus is on whether the demonstration proceeds as announced, how police regulate the gathering and whether any restrictions are imposed during the event.
The High Court’s decision leaves the matter with law-enforcement authorities for now, while the underlying petition remains pending.
