Amid row over CJI remarks, TMC MPs Mahua Moitra, Kirti Azad join ‘Cockroach Janta Party’

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs Mahua Moitra and Kirti Azad have associated themselves with the satirical “Cockroach Janta Party”, an unofficial online campaign that emerged after Chief Justice of India Surya Kant's remarks on unemployed youth sparked criticism on social media. The campaign quickly gained traction online following the comments made during a recent court hearing.

The controversy began during a court hearing last week when CJI Surya Kant remarked, “There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don't get any employment or have any place in profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, RTI activists and other activists and they start attacking everyone.” The comments drew criticism online, with many objecting to the choice of words.

What is the ‘Cockroach Janta Party’?

The “party” is a satirical and unofficial political account that emerged on X following the CJI’s remarks. Its bio appears to mock the statement attributed to him. Describing itself as “a political front of the youth, by the youth, for the youth. Secular - Socialist - Democratic - Lazy,” the page positions itself as a tongue-in-cheek response to the controversy.

Also read | CJI Surya Kant clarifies ‘cockroaches’ remark, says youth not the target

The page gained rapid popularity and got over 15,000 followers on X within 24 hours of its launch. They later announced that 40,000 members had joined the political front.

According to its official website, the CJP calls itself as the “Voice of the lazy & unemployed. A political party for the people the system forgot to count. Five demands. Zero sponsors. One large, stubborn swarm.”

“With the growing support for CJP, we are fully aware that attempts will be made to dismantle us and portray us as anti-social elements. We want to make it absolutely clear that CJP firmly believes in the Constitution of India and will always work towards protecting its values,” a post on X read.

CJP’s membership eligibility checklist

• Unemployed: By force, by choice, or by principle. We don't ask.

• Lazy: Physically only. The brain may continue to spiral.

• Chronically online: Minimum 11 hours a day, including bathroom breaks.

• Can rant professionally: As long as the content is sharp, honest, and points at something that actually matters.

The party said it did not check religion, caste, or gender for membership.

TMC leaders back satirical platform

On Sunday, TMC leaders Kirti Azad and Mahua Moitra publicly expressed their desire to join the platform on X.

Kirti Azad, also an ex-cricketer, posted, “I would like to join the cockroach janta party. What are the qualifications required?” The CJP replied, “We welcome Kirti Azad to our Cockroach Janta Party. Winning the 1983 World Cup is a good enough qualification.”

Mahua Moitra also requested to join. “I too would like to join the CJP (besides being a card carrying member of the Anti National Party).” The party welcomed her, “You are the fighter democracy needs, Mahua Moitra. Welcome to CJP!”

CJI clarifies controversial remarks

Following the backlash, the CJI said his remarks had been misinterpreted and were not aimed at the country’s youth, but at individuals using fake credentials. “I am pained to read how a section of the media has misquoted my oral observations made during the hearing of a frivolous case yesterday,” the Chief Justice said.

Also read | CJI Surya Kant urges judiciary to use AI with caution, not fear

“What I had specifically criticised were those who have entered professions like the Bar (legal profession) with the aid of fake and bogus degrees. Similar persons have sneaked into the media, social media, and other noble professions as well, and hence, they are like parasites,” he added.

The CJI described reports claiming he had criticised unemployed youth as “totally baseless.” He further said, “Not only am I proud of our present and future human resource, but every youth of India inspires me.”