News Snacks

Delhi Police File FIR Over Threats to Magistrate in Bail Case of CJP Leaders

Unidentified persons accused of intimidating SEM during bail hearings of activists Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das.

CJP members allege illegal arrests and vow to continue protests despite police action.

By Legal Reporter

New Delhi: October 19, 2026

Delhi Police have registered an FIR against unidentified persons for allegedly threatening a Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) during the bail proceedings of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) activists Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das. The case highlights rising tensions between law enforcement and activists following arrests linked to protests at Jantar Mantar.

Background of the Case

• Incident Date: October 19, 2026
• Location: New Delhi
• Accused: Unknown individuals threatening a Special Executive Magistrate (SEM).
• Context: Bail proceedings of CJP leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das, arrested for allegedly trespassing at Jantar Mantar, which is no longer a designated protest site.

Key Developments

• FIR Registered: Delhi Police filed the case against unidentified persons for intimidation of the SEM.
• Activist Response:
  • CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke, recently granted conditional bail, stated that the group will “restrategize and continue the fight” despite arrests.
  • Dipke met advocate Vrinda Grover to discuss legal strategies.
• CJP Allegations:
  • Leaders claim arrests were illegal detentions aimed at silencing dissent.
  • National in-charge Ajinkya Shinde posted on X: “Day 5 of the illegal arrest of Ashu and Saurav. Waving the Tiranga is not a crime!”

Legal and Political Context

• Charges: Trespassing at Jantar Mantar, violation of protest regulations.
• Custody: Das and Ranka were sent to five days of judicial custody.
• Broader Issue: The case reflects ongoing debates about freedom of protest vs. public order in Delhi.

Implications

• For Activists: The FIR signals increased scrutiny and possible escalation of legal action against protest leaders.
• For Judiciary: Threats to SEMs raise concerns about the safety of judicial officers and the integrity of bail proceedings.
• For Public: Highlights the tension between citizens’ right to dissent and state enforcement of law and order.

FAQs

Q1: Who are Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das?

They are activists associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), arrested for protesting at Jantar Mantar.

Q2: Why was the FIR registered?

Because unidentified persons allegedly threatened the Special Executive Magistrate overseeing their bail hearings.

Q3: What is the CJP’s stance?

CJP leaders claim the arrests were illegal and vow to continue their protests, framing the issue as a fight for democratic rights.

Q4: What happens next?

The FIR investigation will proceed, while bail hearings for Ranka and Das continue. The activists plan to regroup and strategize further actions.

Q5: Why is Jantar Mantar significant?

It was historically a protest site in Delhi but has been de-notified as a designated venue, making demonstrations there unlawful.