Mumbai: CJP protesters detained before solidarity march at Bandra’s Carter Road

Protesters being detained by the police, ahead of the protest at Carter Road, on Sunday. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

While the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) gave a call to protest on Sunday evening at Bandra's Carter Road, many were detained even before the protests could take shape. According to Kunal Karmerkar, Thane coordinator of CJP, the police intercepted cabs midway before the protesters could reach Bandra. "This is a first," said Karmerkar.

‘Stopped'

Karmerkar alleged that he was in the middle of a cab ride with activist Anjali Damania when the vehicle was intercepted at Khar subway, and they were taken to the DN Nagar police station. "We don't know how they found out about our travel plans. Many protesters were detained and taken to police stations around Vakola, Bandra, and DN Nagar," Karmerkar said.

The CJP had announced a "solidarity walk" at Carter Road - a "no slogan" march with only placards. Karmerkar alleged that a crowd of over 500 protesters was expected, but the march was stopped before it could start.

Cop Speak

A senior police officer said, "The protesters hadn't gotten necessary police permissions and didn't even inform the police. So far, two protesters were taken to DN Nagar police station. There were protesters at Vakola and Bandra too. So far, 30-36 protesters have been detained."