Shivaji Park residents have opposed CJP’s proposed October 2 protest, arguing that large gatherings disrupt peace in the area and affect the children, hospitals in the neighbourhood. Residents said demonstrations should instead be held at designated venues like Azad Maidan. However, Mumbai Police has already denied permission for the protest.
Following the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed October 2 protest at Shivaji Park, residents of the Dadar neighbourhood have strongly opposed holding the demonstration at the ground, arguing that large gatherings disrupt daily life, affect children and create difficulties for hospitals and emergency services in the area.
The residents’ objections come after Mumbai Police denied permission for the CJP’s proposed protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar at Shivaji Park.
Residents oppose protest at Shivaji Park
A video circulating on X shows several residents objecting to the proposed demonstration. “Protest wherever you want but not at Shivaji Park. It is a ground for children, and these protests can have an impact on them,” one resident said in the video.
Another resident pointed to the presence of hospitals and schools around the ground and suggested that demonstrations should instead be held at designated protest venues.
“There are nearby hospitals, schools and this is a silent place. For protest there is a dedicated place that is Azad Maidan. They can stage their protest there,” he said.
The resident further stated that Shivaji Park should primarily be used for cultural activities rather than demonstrations.
Residents recall previous disruptions
Some of the remarks in the video were more confrontational, with one resident warning that if protests take place, then residents could physically to oppose it.
“Even if the matter goes to the police station, we will still take action,” the resident was heard saying.
Another resident recalled difficulties allegedly faced during previous demonstrations in the area, claiming that severe congestion at times made even ambulance movement difficult. He also questioned why residents were not consulted before large gatherings were proposed in their neighbourhood.