Delhi’s Shri Keshav Ramlila Committee in Pitampura has announced an unusual addition to this year’s Dussehra celebrations. Along with the traditional effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnad, the organisers will burn a 30-foot-tall cockroach effigy. The decision has attracted attention because it comes amid protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) in the national capital. Committee members say the giant effigy is intended to promote cleanliness and strengthen the message of good triumphing over evil.
Organisers Deny Any Political Motive
Ashok Goyal, the committee president and a BJP MLA, said the initiative is part of the Swachh Bharat and Swachh Delhi campaigns. He denied that the effigy was being planned for political reasons. According to Goyal, the cockroach represents dirt and unhygienic surroundings, making its burning a symbolic message about cleanliness. The committee also plans to portray the cockroach as one of the demons in Ravana’s army, linking it to the traditional theme of defeating evil.
Why the Cockroach Has Become a Protest Symbol
The CJP emerged as a satirical protest movement after remarks comparing unemployed young people to cockroaches triggered criticism on social media. The organisation subsequently adopted the insect as a symbol of protest. It has raised issues including unemployment, alleged irregularities in examinations and government accountability. The group has also called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations linked to the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
CJP’s Protests and Political Demands
The organisation held a month-long protest at Jantar Mantar during June and July and later marched towards Parliament on July 20, according to the report. It has since joined hands with opposition parties and student groups in demanding action over its concerns. The movement’s latest campaign has brought renewed attention to its use of the cockroach symbol, which has now become part of a wider political debate in Delhi.
Detentions Raise Security Concerns in Delhi
On October 10, Delhi Police reportedly boarded an Air India flight arriving from Mumbai and detained CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, along with Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka. The three were taken off the aircraft before they could reach Jantar Mantar. Das and Ranka were later sent to Tihar Jail for five days of judicial custody over alleged violations of bond conditions and unauthorised entry at Jantar Mantar, according to the report.
Flag March Call Puts Central Delhi on Alert
Dipke has urged supporters to gather with the national flag at Central Park in Connaught Place, linking the campaign to the right to hoist the Tricolour. People unable to reach Delhi have been asked to organise flag marches in their own cities. Security has been tightened around Connaught Place and Jantar Mantar, with several companies of paramilitary personnel deployed. The Delhi High Court reportedly declined to stop the protest, while police said arrangements were being made to maintain law and order.
