RSS reacts to viral Cockroach Janta Party: 'Not a shock’

New Delhi: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has weighed in on the growing popularity of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a satirical social media movement that has captured the attention of young Indians and sparked political debate across the country.

Responding to questions about the viral phenomenon, RSS Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar said democratic societies are expected to accommodate diverse viewpoints and public discussions.

'Not a shock in a democracy'

Speaking on the controversy surrounding the CJP, Ambekar said India has strong democratic institutions, transparent elections and open platforms for discussion. Asked about the viral party he replied: “We are an aware society and we follow the democratic process. Within that democratic process, we have transparent elections, an open media, and now social media as well. Open forums take place every day...So, I believe that in a democracy, any kind of discussion and people expressing differing opinions should not be taken as a shock. They should be considered a part of the normal process. These are all conversations, and the people involved will themselves deal with those issues. I believe the media is free enough to handle them. Political parties are capable, and none of our institutions are weak. They are capable of handling matters, and our system is capable as well. Therefore, I do not think the organisation (RSS) needs to rush into matters immediately. Our younger generation, sometimes called Gen Z, is very hopeful. They have tremendous faith in India. Whatever they do is within the constitutional process. Their contribution is towards taking India forward. The youth of our country have invested all their energy into this, and that is why the nation is progressing in every field.”

According to him, debates, criticism and differing opinions should be viewed as a normal democratic process rather than something shocking.

He stressed that public conversations occur every day through traditional media, social media and other democratic forums, and that democracy has the capacity to absorb a wide range of voices and emotions.

RSS expresses confidence in Gen Z

Ambekar also expressed confidence in India's younger generation, saying Gen Z remains hopeful about the country's future and continues to have faith in democratic institutions.

He said the RSS likewise places trust in young people and believes India's democratic system is strong enough to handle disagreements and competing viewpoints.

"Our people's power and democracy are strong," he said, adding that democratic institutions are capable of dealing with issues raised in public discourse.

What is the Cockroach Janta Party?

The Cockroach Janta Party, widely known as CJP, emerged as a satirical political presence on social media and quickly gained a large following among younger users.

The group's online popularity has attracted attention because its social media reach has surpassed that of several established political parties on some platforms.

The phenomenon has generated heated debate, with supporters describing it as a form of political satire and youth expression, while critics have questioned its motives and influence.

BJP leaders raise concerns

The RSS response comes amid a broader political controversy surrounding the CJP.

Some BJP leaders have alleged possible foreign influence and questioned the intentions behind the social media movement. Meanwhile, several opposition leaders have publicly expressed support for the group..Among those who have backed or defended the CJP are Mahua Moitra, Kirti Azad and Akhilesh Yadav.

Asked whether the RSS should intervene directly in the controversy, Ambekar said India's institutions, political parties and media organisations are fully capable of addressing such matters. He argued that there was no need for the RSS to rush into every public debate, emphasising that democratic mechanisms already exist to deal with disputes and concerns.

The comments mark the first significant reaction from the RSS to the rapidly expanding discussion around the Cockroach Janta Party and its influence on India's online political discourse.