TDP leader Palla Srinivasa Rao said the rise of the Cockroach Janta Party reflects growing youth aspirations
May 24, 2026: Telugu Desam Party leader Palla Srinivasa Rao on Sunday said the rapid rise of the Cockroach Janta Party reflects the aspirations and concerns of India’s youth. Speaking in Vijayawada, Rao acknowledged the growing popularity of the satirical online movement and said policymakers may need to “recalibrate” their approach in response. He stressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu have consistently focused on job creation, economic development, Digital India and investment generation.
Rao said some concerns raised by the Cockroach Janta Party, especially around unemployment and youth aspirations, deserve attention. However, he also cautioned young people about the possible influence of “external forces” and “cross-border elements” on social media platforms. Referring to remarks linked to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant involving the words “cockroaches” and “parasites,” Rao suggested that such statements may have triggered public sentiment contributing to the movement’s popularity.
The CJP, founded by Abhijeet Dipke, has gained massive traction online within days, reportedly attracting over 20 million Instagram followers through satirical content focused on education, unemployment and governance issues. The party’s X account was later withheld in India following legal demands, while some BJP leaders questioned the movement’s authenticity by alleging foreign influence. Rao reiterated that both the BJP and TDP, as NDA allies, share a common objective of improving employment opportunities and ensuring youth aspirations are fulfilled.