New Delhi, October 20, 2026: Delhi Police has transferred the Jantar Mantar trespassing case involving Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka to the Crime Branch, intensifying the investigation into their alleged entry into the protest site by climbing over locked gates.
The development comes after a Special Executive Magistrate extended the custody of the two leaders by another two days. They remain in Tihar Jail as legal proceedings continue.
Case Shifted to Crime Branch
Delhi Police has handed the case over to the Crime Branch for further investigation.
The transfer is expected to enable a specialised team to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged trespassing, the conduct of those involved and any possible coordination connected to the protest action.
CJP Leaders Accused of Entering Jantar Mantar
Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were detained after allegedly entering Jantar Mantar by climbing over locked gates.
According to media reports, the site had been de-notified as a protest venue a day earlier. A video subsequently circulated showing the two leaders and another party functionary entering the area before police intervened.
Custody Extended by Two Days
A Special Executive Magistrate extended the custody of Das and Ranka by two additional days.
Delhi Police argued that their release could affect “peace and tranquillity.” The defence disputed this claim, maintaining that there was insufficient evidence to establish that the two leaders posed a threat to public order.
Magistrate Questions Conduct of Accused
During the proceedings, the magistrate reportedly observed that the conduct of the two leaders demonstrated a lack of respect for the law.
Police cited concerns about their conduct while seeking continued detention. However, the CJP leaders’ legal team argued that the grounds for keeping them in custody were vague and insufficient.
CJP Criticises Continued Detention
CJP representatives have criticised the continued detention of Das and Ranka, accusing authorities of using preventive detention powers to restrict political protest.
The party has demanded their release, while the legal proceedings and police investigation remain ongoing.
Protest Linked to Electoral Roll Dispute
The Jantar Mantar protest was linked to opposition against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
CJP members have participated in demonstrations over the issue, placing the arrests and the subsequent transfer of the case within a wider political dispute over the electoral-roll revision process.
Crime Branch to Examine Possible Coordination
With the case now transferred, investigators are expected to examine whether the alleged trespassing was spontaneous or part of a coordinated action.
The investigation may include a review of available video footage, digital communications and statements from people present during the incident. The findings will determine what further action, if any, is warranted.
Legal Proceedings Continue
Das and Ranka remain in custody as the investigation proceeds.
Further developments will depend on the Crime Branch’s findings and subsequent legal proceedings. The allegations against the two leaders remain subject to the applicable legal process.
Source: The Indian Express, The New Indian Express, Hindustan Times
Supreme News Network
