What started as an internet joke has rapidly evolved into a symbol of resilience and collective frustration among India's youth. The 'Cockroach Janata Party' (CJP) emerged after Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud likened some young people to 'cockroaches' during a court hearing on fake degrees.

Founder Abhijeet Dipke told DW that the movement is no longer a satire. 'It's getting pretty serious,' he said, describing it as an outlet for anger against the political system. He noted that young Indians have long been afraid to speak out, but now they have found a platform.

The party's Instagram page surged from 1 million to over 3 million followers within hours. Over 350,000 people have signed up as members, and a virtual convention is being planned. Several opposition politicians and former civil servants have expressed support.

Dipke dismissed comparisons to Gen Z-led uprisings in Nepal and Bangladesh, emphasizing that Indian youth are mature and will express dissent through peaceful, democratic means. He also accused the 'vishwaguru' (a veiled reference to PM Modi) of being scared of 20-year-olds after alleged hacking attempts on the party's account.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has not yet responded to the satirical movement. Meanwhile, PM Modi is in Italy for bilateral talks, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit India soon.

Source: www.dw.com