New Delhi:The judicial custody of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka was extended by two days on Monday by the Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) in connection with an alleged trespassing case at Jantar Mantar.

The two leaders were produced before the SEM at Mandir Marg Police Station after their initial five-day judicial custody, ordered on October 14, ended on Monday. Delhi Police sought a further extension of their custody.

However, CJP's legal affairs head, Ratna Singh, questioned the need for continued detention, alleging that the prosecution had failed to present substantive legal arguments.

In a post on X, Singh said the party was waiting for the court to dictate its order. She described the proceedings as a “waste of time” and demanded the release of the two leaders.

Detained After Protest at Jantar Mantar

Das and Ranka, along with party member Ajinkya Shinde, were among 14 people detained on October 13 over allegations that they entered the protest site through private premises and obstructed police personnel from discharging their official duties.

The group had gathered to protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI) over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The protesters also raised slogans against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Jantar Mantar has been de-notified as the designated protest site, according to the details cited in the case.

Delhi Police Cites Risk of Repeat Violations

Delhi Police reportedly justified the custody order by citing alleged repeated violations of the law and concerns that the accused could commit further violations or instigate others if released.

Meanwhile, Ajinkya Shinde was released on a personal bond and directed to maintain peace and good behaviour for six months.

The latest custody extension keeps Das and Ranka in detention for two additional days as the case proceeds.