Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Tuesday, September 29, criticised the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) over its demand for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Speaking at a press conference in Guwahati, Athawale said the organisation should rename itself the “Istifa Janata Party”, referring to its repeated demands for resignations.
Athawale also referred to the CJP’s earlier demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper-leak controversy. The minister said the organisation had made resignation demands against several public figures.
The CJP has recently demanded Kumar’s resignation over allegations related to the functioning of the Election Commission and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The organisation has announced plans for a nationwide protest from October 2 if its demand is not accepted.
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Key Facts
- Date: September 29, 2026
- Location: Guwahati, Assam
- Speaker: Union Minister Ramdas Athawale
- Issue: CJP’s demand for CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation
- CJP plan: Nationwide protest from October 2
- Other issue cited: Earlier demand over the NEET paper-leak controversy
- Event in Assam: Inauguration of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Bhavan in Chapar, Dhubri
Athawale’s ‘Istifa Janata Party’ Remark
Athawale said the CJP repeatedly calls for the resignation of public officials and suggested that its name should be changed to the “Istifa Janata Party.” His remarks were directed at the organisation’s ongoing campaign against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The CJP has said its demand is linked to concerns over electoral-roll revisions and alleged irregularities. The Election Commission, meanwhile, has maintained that its procedures are lawful and has described internal disagreements over electoral-roll matters as part of institutional deliberations.
Athawale also commented on CJP founder Abhijit Dipke. He described Dipke as relatively new to politics and contrasted this with his own long involvement in issues concerning Dalits and other backward communities.
Athawale Visits Dhubri
During his Assam visit, Athawale inaugurated Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Bhavan at Chapar in Dhubri district. He interacted with local residents and elected representatives and paid floral tributes at a statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
Athawale said he hoped the new building would become a centre for social justice, equality, education and social awareness. He also highlighted its potential role in supporting the empowerment of marginalised communities.
The minister further said Assam had experienced rapid infrastructure development. He attributed improvements in public facilities and convenience to initiatives undertaken by the Union government.
Political Debate Over Electoral Rolls
The CJP’s campaign comes amid a wider political debate over voter-list revisions and the functioning of the Election Commission. The organisation has accused the poll body of irregularities, while the Election Commission has defended its procedures.
The issue has also attracted criticism and demands for accountability from other opposition groups, making electoral-roll revision a significant political issue ahead of upcoming elections.
Questions and Answers
What did Ramdas Athawale say about the CJP?
He said the CJP should rename itself the “Istifa Janata Party” because of its repeated demands for resignations.
Why is the CJP demanding Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation?
The CJP has raised allegations concerning the Election Commission and the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
When has the CJP announced protests?
The organisation has announced a nationwide protest beginning October 2 if its demand is not met.
Where did Athawale make the remarks?
He made the comments during a press conference in Guwahati, Assam.
What did Athawale inaugurate in Assam?
He inaugurated Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Bhavan at Chapar in Dhubri district.
Assam and Northeast Context
Guwahati is a major political and administrative centre of Assam and serves as an important hub for political activity across Northeast India. The remarks come as the debate over electoral rolls and the Election Commission continues to generate political activity in the region.
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