CJP removes spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya after video shows him eating burger during protest crackdown
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Tuesday removed its spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya from the post after a video surfaced showing him eating a burger while police used force against protesters during the party's 'Chalo Sansad' march.
In a statement, the CJP condemned what it called the 'deeply insensitive actions' of Mr. Dahiya, saying his conduct was inconsistent with the values of the movement. The party said the video emerged while peaceful protesters and its team were facing brutal police violence.
'Such conduct is unacceptable, shows a complete lack of judgment, and is wholly inconsistent with the values and principles of our movement,' the statement said. It added that Mr. Dahiya was being removed as spokesperson and relieved of all official duties.
The controversy erupted after a video circulating on social media showed Mr. Dahiya at a fast-food outlet near Jantar Mantar while police used batons and tear gas to disperse protesters attempting to march towards Parliament. In the clip, a person questions why he was at the restaurant instead of with the protesters.
Responding to the criticism, Mr. Dahiya posted a video of himself eating a burger and dismissed the controversy. He said in Hindi: 'Why did I eat a burger? This is a big issue today. So why does anyone eat a burger? He is hungry. He wants to eat a burger. That's it. So I was also very hungry. And when you eat something good, your mind feels good.'
Mr. Dahiya also noted that he had not slept for two nights, like those at the protest site. 'You hold me accountable as if it is my job to be a protester. You haven't elected me to this position,' he said.
The protest on Monday saw police using batons and tear gas shells to disperse CJP members demanding accountability for alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
