Delhi Police Defend Janpath Protest Ban and Dipke Detention
Delhi Police clarify why Janpath protests were banned and address the detention of CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke amid security concerns.
The Delhi Police have come forward to justify the recent ban on protests at Janpath and the detention of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) activist Abhijeet Dipke, citing severe security risks and a history of violence associated with the group's demonstrations.
Security Concerns and History of Violence
During a comprehensive press briefing, DCP Neha Yadav explained that the decision to deny permission for a planned sit-in protest at Janpath was not arbitrary. The authorities pointed to a pattern of non-compliance and dangerous behavior during previous demonstrations organized by the CJP.
According to the DCP, past gatherings by the group have resulted in:
- Heavy stone-pelting directed at authorities and surroundings.
- Arson and significant damage to public property.
- Violations of legal undertakings and failure to follow local directives.
To prevent a recurrence of such chaos and to safeguard the lives and property of Delhi's citizens, the police have invoked Section 133 BNSS across several areas of the city. This measure strictly prohibits unauthorized gatherings and protests in the current security climate.
The Detention of Abhijeet Dipke
The detention of CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke and two associates on October 10 has become a focal point of the recent unrest. DCP Yadav clarified that the move was a preventive measure taken ahead of the proposed Janpath sit-in, which lacked the necessary legal permissions.
Addressing the sensitivity of the situation, the DCP noted that the police attempted to handle the human element of the detention with care. Following the news of the passing of Dipke's grandmother, Savitribai Shankarrao Dipke, at the age of 85, officers reportedly approached the activist to offer condolences and assistance.
"As soon as the Delhi Police received information about the passing away of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) Founder Abhijeet Dipke's grandmother, officers approached him to convey this sad news and offered all possible assistance," DCP Yadav stated. She added that officers offered help with flights, phone calls, and communication with his parents, though these offers were declined by Dipke.
Activist Vows to Return to the Streets
Despite the personal tragedy and the legal hurdles imposed by the police, Abhijeet Dipke remains undeterred. In a defiant social media post on X, the activist signaled that the movement would not be silenced by political pressure or personal loss.
"Haven’t signed any bond that says we won’t protest. We will hit the streets again," Dipke asserted, making it clear that the CJP intends to continue its public demonstrations.
Following the release of key members from detention, the CJP held a press conference in the national capital to address the recent developments and their ongoing stance against the current restrictions.