Delhi Police deploys 1,000 personnel ahead of Cockroach Janta Party protest

The Delhi Police has stepped up security arrangements ahead of a proposed protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar on Saturday, even as officials said the organisation has not sought permission for the gathering.

According to police, more than 1,000 personnel have been deployed across New Delhi, with district units placed on standby as authorities monitor developments surrounding the planned demonstration, per a report by Mint.

No permission request received

The CJP, founded by Abhijeet Dipke, has called for a peaceful protest demanding the resignation of Union Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The campaign centres on allegations of paper leaks in the NEET-UG medical entrance examination and concerns over the On Screen Marking (OSM) and revaluation process for Class 12 CBSE examinations.

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Despite the growing buzz around the event online, Delhi Police said no formal request has been submitted by the organisation.

"We will examine their request if and when they seek permission," a senior police officer told news agency PTI.

Police sources quoted by Mint said they became aware of the proposed protest through social media posts and messages circulating online. Officials added that they have not received any official communication from the Abhijeet Dipke-led outfit.

Protest gains attention online

Dipke had earlier urged supporters and students to join the protest, saying he would return from the United States to lead the demonstration. Education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has also said he would join the protest if Pradhan does not resign by June 5.

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Originally launched as a satirical response to remarks made by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant during a court hearing last month, CJP has since evolved into a larger online campaign that has attracted significant attention on social media.

Security review underway

Per Mint, senior Delhi Police officers conducted a high-level review meeting on Friday to assess security arrangements and preparedness. Sources said further decisions will depend on intelligence inputs and the situation on the ground.

Officials described the situation as "very dynamic", with assessments taking place at multiple levels. Intelligence agencies are also examining reports of possible support for the proposed protest from certain political groups, with several political leaders reportedly under scrutiny as part of the review process.