The Supreme Court on Monday declined to grant urgent hearings on a set of petitions connected to the satirical “Cockroach Janta Party” (CJP) movement, which has recently gained traction on social media. The court observed that the matter did not involve any immediate or grave urgency that would justify expedited listing, and indicated that the petitions would be taken up in the normal course of judicial proceedings.

The matter came before a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and VM Pancholi. During early mentions in court, the bench was informed about multiple public interest litigations (PILs) related to the controversy, prompting brief procedural discussion on whether the issues warranted urgent consideration.

One of the petitions sought action against what it described as the commercial circulation and monetisation of courtroom observations made during recent hearings. Another plea called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged activities involving fake advocates, fraudulent law degrees, and related concerns about professional integrity within the legal system. These petitions were also linked, in argument, to the broader online discussions surrounding the CJP movement.

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As counsel raised concerns that the viral online campaign was allegedly damaging the reputation of the judiciary, the Chief Justice reportedly responded by urging restraint in reaction, remarking that people should not “react so sentimentally” to the issue. The observation came in response to submissions highlighting the growing attention the controversy has received across digital platforms and its perceived impact on institutional image.

The controversy itself originates from earlier oral remarks made by the Chief Justice during a separate hearing concerning allegations of fake law degrees and misuse of professional credentials. In that context, strong expressions were used to criticise individuals allegedly entering the legal profession through fraudulent means, including references describing certain actors as “parasites of society” and comparisons involving “cockroaches” in relation to institutional criticism and online activism.

Following public reaction, the Chief Justice later clarified that his comments had been misinterpreted or misquoted. He stated that the remarks were intended specifically for individuals accused of using fake or bogus degrees, and not directed at unemployed youth or the broader public. Despite the clarification, the remarks triggered widespread discussion online, with the emergence of the satirical “Cockroach Janta Party” movement further amplifying debate around judicial language, public perception, and the boundaries of criticism.

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