The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has appealed to participants of its ‘Jantar Mantar 2.0’ protest on October 10 to remain peaceful, act responsibly and avoid any form of violence or intimidation. In a statement issued on the day of the planned demonstration, the party stressed the importance of following lawful instructions, protecting public property and ensuring that emergency services can continue operating without disruption.
The protest has been organised to demand accountability in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Despite Delhi Police denying permission for the gathering, the CJP urged supporters to remain united, disciplined and committed to peaceful participation throughout the demonstration at Jantar Mantar.
In its advisory, the party made it clear that violence, physical confrontations, threats and vandalism would not be acceptable. Participants were warned against stone-pelting, arson, damaging barricades or destroying public and private property. The CJP also instructed demonstrators not to carry weapons, sticks, stones, inflammable materials or other objects that could potentially cause injuries.
Another key concern highlighted in the statement was the safety of emergency services. Protesters were asked to keep access routes clear for ambulances, fire engines and people requiring hospital treatment. The party emphasised that a demonstration should never prevent emergency responders from reaching those who need urgent assistance.
The CJP also called on participants to avoid communal insults, hate speech, personal attacks and threats directed at government officials, police personnel, journalists or members of the public. Protesters were advised to respect barricades and restricted areas instead of attempting to force their way through police lines.
The party further cautioned against individuals who might attempt to provoke confrontations or encourage unlawful activities during the demonstration. Participants who witnessed suspicious or potentially dangerous behaviour were encouraged to inform designated CJP coordinators and contact the police when it was safe to do so.
In an effort to prevent misinformation from spreading, the CJP urged supporters to verify information before sharing it online. The party warned against circulating unverified allegations, misleading videos, rumours or messages that could create panic, hostility or unnecessary tension. Recording incidents was encouraged only when lawful and safe, without interfering with police duties or presenting unverified claims as established facts.
The advisory also included practical precautions for those attending the protest. Participants were encouraged to remain with their groups, establish meeting points, carry essential identification and medicines, keep their mobile phones charged and move away from areas where tensions begin to rise. They were also asked to help children, older people and other vulnerable individuals reach safety if the situation became difficult.
Regarding interactions with law enforcement, the CJP instructed demonstrators to remain calm, follow lawful orders and avoid physical resistance. Those detained were advised to seek information about the reasons for their detention and obtain appropriate legal assistance.
Meanwhile, Delhi Police strengthened security arrangements across the capital ahead of the planned demonstration. Additional personnel were deployed at Jantar Mantar, key entry and exit routes and several border points. Vehicle checks were intensified around the Delhi-Noida and Badarpur crossings, as well as along the Delhi-Haryana and Delhi-Uttar Pradesh borders, with authorities seeking to prevent disturbances and maintain public order.
Separately, the Gautam Buddha Nagar Police Commissionerate in Uttar Pradesh imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, across the district from October 10 to October 20. The measure was introduced as part of efforts to maintain public order during the period.
The situation places renewed attention on the delicate balance between public security and the right to peaceful protest. While authorities have a responsibility to maintain order and protect residents, citizens and political groups also have a legitimate interest in raising concerns about electoral processes and public accountability through lawful channels.
Ultimately, the message behind the CJP’s appeal is that the strength of a protest does not have to come from confrontation. A disciplined, peaceful demonstration can communicate serious concerns without putting lives at risk, damaging property or disrupting essential services. As the situation unfolds, the conduct of participants and the response of authorities will both be important in ensuring that public safety and democratic expression remain central to the proceedings.
