The Mumbai Police have denied permission to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) to hold its planned October 2 protest against the Election Commission at Shivaji Park, Dadar.
In a letter addressed to CJP national organisation in‑charge Ajinkya Shinde, the Shivaji Park police cited multiple reasons for the rejection. These included court‑imposed restrictions on non‑sporting activities at the iconic ground, the absence of BMC approval, and concerns over noise pollution and traffic congestion.
The CJP had sought permission to stage the protest from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Gandhi Jayanti, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral roll revisions.
CJP leaders, including national convener Abhijit Dipke and co‑conveners Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das, have been spearheading the agitation. The denial of permission is expected to intensify tensions, as the party has already announced plans for nationwide protests beginning October 2.
Shivaji Park, historically associated with political rallies and mass movements, has been under strict regulation following court orders limiting its use to sporting activities. The police decision underscores the challenges faced by political groups seeking to mobilise at traditional protest sites in Mumbai.
