The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has again come under public attention amid a decline in followers on its official Instagram account and allegations made by its founder, Abhijeet Deepke, regarding an attack on him in Jaipur. Meanwhile, authorities have strengthened security arrangements ahead of the party’s proposed demonstration in Nagpur.
According to social media data, the CJP Instagram account had approximately 22.5 million followers as of June 16, compared with around 22.7 million on June 7, reflecting a decline of nearly 200,000 followers within a few days. Despite the decrease, the organization remains among the country’s widely discussed digital movements.
Follower numbers had risen sharply following the party’s first major demonstration held in Delhi on June 6. Before the event, the account had approximately 22.1 million followers. Within the following 24 hours, the figure increased to around 22.7 million. Social media analysts attributed the growth to the organization’s campaign on issues related to the education system and competitive examinations, which drew significant attention from young people.
The follower count subsequently declined. Experts said fluctuations in follower numbers on social media platforms can occur for several reasons, including the removal of inactive accounts, changes in user interest, or platform-related technical processes.
CJP founder Abhijeet Deepke alleged that people associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) were behind the attack on him in Jaipur. Speaking to the media at Nagpur Airport, he said that individuals who raise their voices against the government or its ideology often face opposition and attacks.
Deepke said his organization’s objective is to raise issues related to the education system and that the campaign would continue. He described the attack on him as being against democratic values and said attempts should not be made to suppress dissent through violence.
The Cockroach Janata Party has been organizing demonstrations across the country on various education-related issues. The organization’s primary focus includes the controversy surrounding the NEET medical entrance examination, alleged paper leaks, irregularities in the CBSE examination system, and demands for reforms in the education sector.
The party has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. According to CJP, comprehensive reforms are necessary to ensure transparency and accountability in the examination system. Rallies and demonstrations are being organized in various cities to press these demands.
The attack occurred during a demonstration held on Monday at Shaheed Smarak on M.I. Road in Jaipur. According to eyewitnesses, while Abhijeet Deepke was being carried on the shoulders of supporters through the crowd, several youths approached him and allegedly grabbed his collar and slapped him.
The incident led to commotion at the venue. Activists and supporters present at the demonstration surrounded the alleged attackers, further increasing tensions. Police intervened to bring the situation under control. The accused youths were later taken into custody and normalcy was restored.
Jaipur Police said five people were arrested following the incident. The arrested individuals have been accused of disturbing the peace and affecting public order.
According to the police, the accused stated during questioning that they were unhappy with some of Deepke’s statements on social media and with CJP’s functioning. Police said a detailed investigation is continuing and all aspects of the incident are being examined.
The administration said the law would take its course and that no party would be allowed to take the law into its own hands.
During the Jaipur event, Deepke also paid tribute to students who had allegedly died by suicide due to examination-related and academic pressures. He urged those present to observe a two-minute silence.
Participants expressed condolences to the families of the students and reiterated demands for reforms in the education system. The programme continued peacefully after the observance.
Following the Jaipur incident, attention has shifted to the CJP demonstration planned in Nagpur. The organization has called for a large-scale protest at Constitution Square. Authorities believe that a significant number of young people and students may participate in the event.
In response, security arrangements across the city have been strengthened. Police officials said a large deployment of personnel has been made to maintain law and order, while sensitive areas are under enhanced surveillance.
Nagpur Police said additional security measures have been implemented ahead of the demonstration. A substantial police presence has been deployed under the supervision of senior officers. Riot-control units have also been placed on standby to respond to any untoward situation.
Police authorities said peaceful demonstrations are permitted, but strict action will be taken against any attempt to engage in violence, vandalism, or disrupt law and order.
