A viral Indian social media account targeting concerns of Gen Z has faced backlash, with its founder alleging hacking and threats after gaining millions of followers disillusioned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
The satirical “Cockroach Janta Party” (CJP) account amassed over 22 million Instagram followers in days, reflecting growing dissatisfaction among young users on issues like unemployment and exam question leaks.
Founder Abhijeet Dipke wrote on X that the group’s website was taken down, its X account withheld in India, and his family received threats. He vowed to continue raising voice against autocracy, stating “You can hack and withhold our accounts but you cannot stop this movement.”
The government has not confirmed any action against the website or Instagram account. The Internet Freedom Foundation criticized the alleged blocking of the X account as an arbitrary attempt to suppress free speech.
Recent electoral wins by Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party in key states have strengthened its position, while the surge in CJP’s popularity contrasts with these victories and over a decade of national power for the BJP.
Federal minister Kiren Rijiju dismissed the phenomenon, stating on X that “Those who are heroes of the anti-India gang cannot be heroes of India.” Dipke responded by posting demographic analysis showing 94% of his Instagram audience is from India.
A survey by CVoter found concerns highlighted by CJP resonated with younger Indians, as over 60% of respondents aged 18 to 24 felt anxious about their future. Joblessness among urban youth stands at 14%, significantly higher than the national unemployment rate of around 5%.
Activist Prashant Bhushan suggested if the online movement gains traction, it will need to organize and mobilize on the ground.