Abhijeet Dipke reacts to offer to join NDA camp: ‘Wasn't I anti-national for you a month ago?'

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has responded to Union minister Ramdas Athawale’s invitation to join the Republican Party of India (RPI-A), a constituent of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

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Abhi ek mahine pehle toh me anti-national tha tumhare liye?

Dipke questioned the sincerity of the offer, writing on Instagram, “Just a month ago, I was an anti-national for you?” His comment alluded to the recent student-led protests at Jantar Mantar concerning exam paper leaks, student suicides, and education system reforms. These protests had led to significant pressure, culminating in the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Union education minister.

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Abhijeet Dipke is an Ambedkarite. He is active and young. He should consider joining Republic Party of India (A).

Athawale had suggested Dipke join the RPI (A) to “fulfil Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's dream” and strengthen society. He stated that the government believes in punishing wrongdoing and that Dipke should join the ruling faction. Athawale's remarks appeared to link Dipke's activism to the student protests.

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We are a government that believes people should be punished if they do wrong. So, he should join the ruling faction.

Dipke's response also referenced his earlier support for RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's statement that Gen Z should not be labeled "anti-national" for raising legitimate concerns through protests. Dipke had agreed with Bhagwat, urging him to convey this message to BJP leaders and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dipke had previously accused BJP leaders of using harsh language against protesting students, citing Dharmendra Pradhan's description of them as the "B-team of terrorists" and Nitin Nabin's labeling them a "virus." Dipke expressed hope that the BJP would heed Bhagwat's words, given the RSS's influence.

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The most significant statement made by Mohan Bhagwat yesterday was that Gen Z should not be called anti-nationals. He stated that protesting is their right and their issues are genuine. I completely agree with this.