After Cockroach Janta Party, Justice Markandey Katju launches Ishq Karo Party

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Markandey Katju has announced the launch of a new political initiative, named Ishq Karo Party (IKP), describing it as a "serious platform" aimed at addressing India's social, economic, and political challenges through national unity and collective action.

Katju said he developed the idea with his friend Irfan Ali, a Princeton-based professional, who has helped establish the party’s online presence, including its website, social media accounts, and a dedicated email address for membership inquiries.

‘Ishq means love for the nation’

Clarifying misconceptions surrounding the party’s name, Katju said “Ishq Karo” should not be interpreted as a call for romantic love. Instead, he said, the word “ishq” signifies a deep and selfless love for India and its people, irrespective of religion, caste, language, or race.

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According to Katju, India continues to face serious challenges, including poverty, unemployment, child malnutrition, inadequate healthcare and education, rising prices, and social divisions. He argued that these issues cannot be resolved without fostering unity among citizens and overcoming caste, communal, and linguistic barriers.

Call for people’s movement

The former judge said the party seeks to unite citizens around a common national purpose and encourage what he described as a “jan sangharsh” or people's struggle, led by modern-minded and secular leaders. He maintained that divisive politics has weakened society and hindered efforts to address pressing developmental concerns.

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Drawing on the traditions of Sufi thought and Urdu poetry, Katju said the term “ishq” represents dedication to a noble ideal rather than physical attraction. He cited historical figures ranging from George Washington and Voltaire to Indian freedom fighters such as Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Ashfaqulla Khan as examples of individuals driven by selfless commitment to their causes.

Invitation to join

The announcement has generated discussion on social media, with some viewing the initiative as political satire and others as a genuine attempt to create a new political platform.

Katju has invited young Indians to join the party and recently extended invitations to public figures, including Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra.

"Mahua, forget clowns of CJP, and join newly-formed Ishq Karo Party, whose agenda is Make Love Not War," he wrote.