CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR — Asserting that existing political structures have failed to address citizens' core grievances, Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) chief spokesperson Saurav Das on Wednesday declared that India needs a sustained mass movement rather than another political organization.
Speaking to media persons in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Das emphasized the necessity of keeping the ongoing youth-led protests alive to demand accountability and drive systemic change.
"There are already seven to eight hundred political parties operating in this country, yet the day-to-day issues faced by ordinary citizens remain unresolved," Das stated. "We are actively listening to the public. Our firm belief is that what the country urgently requires right now is a genuine mass movement rather than a standard political party. That conviction is the primary driver behind organizing this high-level meeting in Sambhajinagar."
Das, who emerged as a prominent voice during the recent demonstrations at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, arrived in Maharashtra to attend a critical two-day strategy session. The meeting, taking place at the residence of CJP founder Abhijit Dipke on Wednesday and Thursday, brings together key office-bearers to shape the future roadmap of the youth initiative.
Reflecting on the recent agitation in the national capital, Das characterized the resignation of a Union Minister following persistent demonstrations as a historic victory for student activists. However, he noted that the triumph also brought forth fundamental questions regarding the movement’s long-term orientation.
"Following this strategy session, we will formulate concrete plans on how to expand and sustain the movement at the grass-roots and local levels," Das elaborated. "We have received overwhelming support from young people across the nation. Moving forward, our immediate focus will be on deepening outreach, engaging youth voters, and outlining an actionable agenda that directly reflects their aspirations."
Turning to recent controversies, Das strongly condemned the police lathicharge on students at Jantar Mantar on July 20, describing it as an unpardonable incident that continues to draw sharp reactions from multiple quarters, including Members of Parliament who have demanded the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Addressing allegations surrounding founder Abhijit Dipke’s educational and housing funding, Das dismissed the accusations as baseless distraction tactics. He challenged critics to apply equal transparency across the political spectrum, reiterating demands for public disclosures regarding political party funding and the Prime Minister's credentials.
Das further announced that CJP plans to launch a creative political satire show aimed at highlighting the absurdities witnessed throughout the protest period, while reiterating that the movement will remain steadfast in opposing state heavy-handedness and police brutality against students.
