The founder of India’s viral satirical movement, the “Cockroach People’s Party,” said he is returning to New Delhi on Friday to take his online campaign into street-level protests.
Online movement turns into real-world activism
Abhijeet Dipke, a 30-year-old Boston University graduate, created the parody “Cockroach Janta Party” (CJP) and quickly gained millions of followers online. He said he plans to seek police permission for a peaceful protest on Saturday targeting India’s education minister.
Moreover, the online movement emerged as a satire of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The campaign has grown rapidly since its launch last month and continues to trend across social media platforms.
Origins of the satirical party
Dipke, who previously worked with the opposition Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), launched the fictional party on May 16. The movement reportedly gained momentum after controversial remarks attributed to Chief Justice Surya Kant, who allegedly referred to critics as “cockroaches” and “parasites.” The judge later said the comments were misinterpreted.
Furthermore, the group adopted the slogan promoting youth-led political engagement. It presents itself as “a political front for the youth, by the youth, for the youth.”
Call for resignation and public reaction
Dipke has called for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, citing alleged irregularities in major examinations. He announced his return to India in a post on Private channel, saying he is placing his future “in the hands of the Constitution.”
As a result, the campaign continues to spark debate online, blending satire with political commentary and drawing strong public attention.
