CJP leaders summoned by Delhi Crime Branch a day after release from Tihar Jail

NEW DELHI: Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) co-convenors Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka have been summoned by the Delhi Police Crime Branch a day after their release from Tihar Jail in connection with cases linked to their protest at Jantar Mantar.

The two leaders have been directed to appear at the Crime Branch office in Rajouri Garden at noon on Thursday for questioning. CJP member Ajinkya Shinde has also been summoned, according to reports. The cases relate to allegations of trespassing and disobeying orders issued by a public servant during the October 13 protest.

The cases were transferred to the Crime Branch on October 19 and 20, according to reports, for further investigation. One case concerns alleged trespassing through private premises to enter the Jantar Mantar protest site, while the other relates to alleged obstruction of police personnel.
Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were released from Tihar Jail on Wednesday, October 21, after spending a week in judicial custody. A Special Executive Magistrate ordered their release after they furnished personal and surety bonds of Rs 50,000 each and submitted written undertakings to maintain peace and abide by the law. They also undertook not to call for protests at Jantar Mantar while the site remains de-notified.

The two leaders had been detained following the October 13 demonstration, during which CJP members allegedly crossed barricades and entered the protest site while waving the national flag. They were sent to judicial custody on October 14.

Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka had also approached the Delhi High Court challenging their continued detention. They withdrew their pleas after the court questioned whether it was the appropriate forum to consider their challenge and pointed to an alternative legal remedy.