SKM Slams Ban on Cockroach Janta Party, Cites Free Speech and Misuse of Power

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha criticized the ban on Cockroach Janta Party's social media and the attack on Abhijeet Dipke, calling it a misuse of power and free speech violation. They likened it to past government strategies during the farmers' protests, focusing on freedom of expression and addressing grievances.

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has strongly criticized the recent ban on the Cockroach Janta Party's online presence and the alleged assault on its founder, Abhijeet Dipke. The SKM claims these actions represent a misuse of state authority and an infringement on free speech rights.

The SKM highlighted that the Cockroach Janta Party, a satirical digital movement driven by youth, emerged following controversial remarks by Chief Justice Surya Kant. The farmers’ group argues that the ban violates constitutional rights, pointing out that political satire and expression are protected under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.

Comparing this situation to the handling of the 2020-21 farmers' protests, the SKM accused the government of branding dissenters as 'anti-national.' They argued that addressing farmers' issues, such as Minimum Support Price and debts, has been neglected in favor of suppressing satire.

SKM also connected the crackdown to larger societal discontent, referencing alleged academic misconduct and the struggles of youths with unemployment. They accused the leadership of intolerance toward criticism and called for reflection amid the growth of digital dissent.