Protest in Thane against unemployment by 'members of cockroach movement'

A protest was held in Thane, Maharashtra, against unemployment, paper leaks, and inflation, with the "Cockroach Movement" drawing support from NCP workers and highlighting youth frustration with the government.

A protest was organised in Maharashtra's Thane city on Monday against unemployment, paper leaks and inflation, with demonstrators calling themselves members of a ''cockroach movement''.

Workers of NCP (SP) also joined the demonstration near Masunda Lake in the evening, where youths sang rap songs, flash mobs performed, and slogans were raised against the government.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is a satirical digital outfit that recently took social media by storm.

NCP (SP) national general secretary Jitendra Awhad, district president Manoj Pradhan, and youth leader Abhijit Pawar participated.

Addressing the gathering, Awhad said the movement reflected growing anger among youths against the establishment.

''The youth of the country are frustrated due to unemployment and lack of opportunities. The anger among youngsters is increasing,'' he said.

Referring to the ''Cockroach Janata Party'', Awhad claimed the term emerged on social media after remarks (by CJI Surya Kant) made against unemployed youths.

Some protesters dressed as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni distributed Melody chocolates during the agitation.

On May 16, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued a strongly worded clarification of his remarks, saying he was ''pained'' by media reports suggesting he had criticised the youth.