More than 1,000 police personnel were deployed across key locations in Delhi, including the Indira Gandhi International Airport, border entry points, major intersections, and sensitive areas. Barricades were installed and vehicle-checking drives intensified as authorities prepared for the gathering.
Abhijeet Dipke, who arrived in Delhi from Boston on Saturday morning, said he was looking forward to meeting supporters at Jantar Mantar. In a social media post, he urged participants to carry books and the Indian national flag, adding that the movement should be led with "love and peace."
Earlier, Delhi Police had stated that no formal request for permission to hold the protest had been received from the CJP. However, later in the morning, party spokesperson Saurav Das claimed that permission had been granted for the demonstration at Jantar Mantar.
The Cockroach Janta Party, which began as a satirical online initiative, has gained remarkable popularity among young Indians, especially Gen Z. According to reports, the movement attracted more than 1.6 lakh members and over two million social media followers within a few days of its launch.
Ahead of the protest, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka expressed confidence that the day could become a "monumental moment in Indian politics." The movement has also received support from education reform advocate and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had earlier indicated he would join the protest if the Education Minister did not step down.
Meanwhile, friends and relatives of Dipke from his native village in Maharashtra appealed for the protest to remain peaceful and focused on its stated objectives. They also urged authorities to cooperate with demonstrators and ensure law and order.
As crowds began gathering near Jantar Mantar, security personnel remained on high alert. Authorities said they would continue monitoring the situation closely to ensure that the protest proceeds peacefully.
The demonstration is expected to be closely watched as it highlights growing concerns among young people over education-related issues and the increasing influence of digital movements in shaping public discourse.