India's 'Cockroach Party' X account to be restored by court order

The Delhi High Court has ordered the reinstatement of the X account for the satirical 'Cockroach Janta Party' (CJP), a move celebrated by the group as a significant win for freedom of expression and digital rights.

The CJP's account, which had amassed over 200,000 followers on X and nearly 22 million on Instagram, was blocked by the Indian government on May 21. Officials cited concerns that its posts could incite "chaos" among students and parents during the national medical entrance exam, NEET. The CJP, however, argued the block was an act of political censorship.

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This is a great victory not only for the CJP and the movement but also for freedom of expression and digital rights. We will continue to raise the voice of the youth, both online and offline.

The court revoked the government's order, stating the initial concern was no longer relevant since the exam had concluded. "This is a great victory not only for the CJP and the movement but also for freedom of expression and digital rights," said Abhijeet Dipke, the leader of the 'cockroaches.' "We will continue to raise the voice of the youth, both online and offline."

Despite the court's ruling, the X account remained blocked at the time of reporting, citing a "response to a legal demand." Supporters of the CJP have been protesting in various cities since early June, demanding the resignation of India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. They hold him politically responsible for irregularities in several official exams. In New Delhi, activists, including Sonam Wangchuk, have been staging a sit-in protest and hunger strike, with Wangchuk reportedly losing significant weight and experiencing low blood pressure.

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Mr. Sonam has lost more than six kilos and his blood pressure is also quite low. When will the government wake up?