Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has waded into the debate over the suspension of the satirical platform ‘Cockroach Janata Party’ on X, describing the decision to withhold the account as “disastrous and deeply unwise”. Arguing that younger generations need a space to “express themselves”, Tharoor questioned the legal takedown of the page, which had amassed over 200,000 followers before being restricted in India on Wednesday following a government demand.
The Thiruvananthapuram MP admitted he was fascinated by the rapid ascent of the satirical movement, pointing out that its Instagram handle had managed to draw over 19 million followers in less than a week. Taking to X, Tharoor noted that he understood the frustrations driving the youth to align with the platform, adding that democracies rely heavily on outlets for dissent, humour, and satire. He urged authorities to restore the account rather than silence it.
I’m incredibly intrigued by the rise of #CockroachJantaParty, which has already reached more than 15 million followers on @Instagram in just five days.
I understand the frustrations of the youth and see why they are resonating with it. This is precisely why the account being… https://t.co/4qbaRN6oSz
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 21, 2026
Future prospects notwithstanding, Tharoor remains unsure of where this internet fad will lead but did hope that this newfound momentum would be harnessed in the realm of politics by the same people and hoped that they will use their right to vote in order to emerge as an indomitable force. It is not just for the masses but his message to other opposition politicians is to make full use of this viral wave and reach out to the disaffected youth.
The Cockroach Janata Party emerged online just days ago, quickly capturing widespread attention by branding itself as a political front run by and for young people, explicitly claiming to represent the “Voice of the Lazy & Unemployed.” Created by Abhijeet Dipke, who acts as its “Founding President”, the platform’s website clarifies in its small print that the initiative is entirely satirical. Despite its humorous tone, the group has published a mock manifesto featuring serious political proposals, including a ban on post-retirement Rajya Sabha appointments for chief justices, a 20-year restriction on political turncoats, and a 50 per cent reservation for women in Parliament.
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