Dhruv Rathee was detained from his residence in Gurugram’s Sector 56 on Saturday as police tried to stop protesters reaching Jantar Mantar. He was released late Saturday night, and The Tribune reported the time as around 3 am Sunday. His detention came amid a clampdown in which police said more than 7,000 protesters were held.
DON'T MISS
A Clear Warning From Police
A police source told PTI that Rathee can be detained again, or face further legal action, if he tries to go to Jantar Mantar despite prohibitory orders. Others were treated similarly. Former chief ministers Arvind Kejriwal, Mamata Banerjee, Pinarayi Vijayan and Manik Sarkar were also detained and later released.
What Happened to CJP Leaders
CJP leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das were placed under preventive arrest after being detained at the airport. A report on The Patriot said an executive magistrate released the CJP leaders on the condition that they maintain peace for a year. Police are also likely to register FIRs over alleged assaults on personnel during the protest, a senior officer said.
Will the CJP Return?
The CJP criticised the detentions, vowed to continue the agitation and urged supporters to gather at Jantar Mantar on Sunday. Journalist bodies have also condemned the detentions. The Supreme Court is due to hear a plea seeking contempt action against authorities.
What About Sonam Wangchuk?
I found no report that Wangchuk has announced he will join the October protests. He joined the CJP’s earlier agitation in June and went on a hunger strike over education issues, and his role this time is unconfirmed. Watch for statements from Dhruv Rathee, Wangchuk and the CJP, and for any further police action around Jantar Mantar.
