CJP Movement Continues: Abhijit Deepke Discusses Future Strategies

CJP's Ongoing Movement Against Chief Election Commissioner

In New Delhi, Abhijit Deepke, the founder and national coordinator of the Cockroach People's Party (CJP), has made it clear that the ongoing protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is far from over. He stated that after meeting with co-coordinators Saurabh Das and Ashutosh Ranka, they will devise a new strategy for the movement. Deepke acknowledged that given the current circumstances, it is essential to modify their approach.

Saurabh Das and Ashutosh Ranka had spent over a week in jail, during which Deepke urged his supporters via video to take a break and spend time with their families. He suggested pausing the movement until Diwali. Following the legal challenges faced by the organization and the temporary halt in protests, questions arose about whether the CJP's campaign had weakened or if they were preparing to re-engage with a new strategy.

In an interview with a YouTube channel, when asked about the future plans and whether the CJP movement was nearing its end, Deepke mentioned that the strategy is yet to be finalized. He noted that he has not yet met with Saurabh Das and Ashutosh Ranka, as he advised them to spend a few days with their families before reconvening. He hinted that a fresh plan would be developed after their discussions.

Addressing concerns about the organization's future, Deepke referenced the historic Test match between India and Australia at Eden Gardens. He explained that there was a moment when it seemed the Indian team was on the verge of defeat, having been forced to follow on. However, a remarkable partnership between Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman turned the match around, leading to a historic victory for India. Deepke compared the resilience of Das and Ranka during their time in jail to this partnership, emphasizing their steadfastness despite challenging circumstances.

Deepke asserted that the prolonged detention of Das and Ranka was intended to intimidate protesters, making others think twice before joining the movement. However, he noted that both leaders returned from jail calm and determined. He remarked that despite being mocked for his preference for cold coffee, Saurabh Das emerged smiling after eight days in Tihar Jail, while Ashutosh Ranka also appeared composed and inquired about future plans.

Deepke expressed regret that he was granted bail while his companions remained incarcerated, wishing he could have shared their experience. He stated that the organization's leaders would soon regroup, discuss their next steps, and strategize anew. He claimed that the government fears the CJP, which is why efforts are being made to suppress their protests. He pointed out that while other groups are also protesting, the treatment of CJP leaders, who were held for eight days, was not mirrored in the cases of other demonstrators. Deepke alleged that the government is concerned about the CJP's ability to attract youth, making them a target.

Regarding the need for a change in protest strategy, Deepke mentioned that upon his return to India, he had resolved to face any circumstances. However, with the movement's expansion, it has become crucial to proceed with greater caution. He acknowledged the necessity for the organization to reassess its current strategies and consider new approaches on various issues. According to him, strengthening legal support and defense mechanisms will be vital for advancing the movement.

Deepke expressed concern that more cases might be filed against the organization and its members in the future. He had anticipated that within two to three months, they might face arrests and legal challenges, and the organization was prepared for this. He accused the government of attempting to entrap the CJP, but emphasized that such challenges would not deter the organization from continuing its fight. Deepke reiterated that the CJP would persist in its efforts, although future strategies would be determined after discussions with fellow members.