Mumbai CJP Protest: NHRC Orders Probe Into Alleged Mobilisation of Minors, Seeks FIR and Digital Evidence

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognisance of complaints alleging the mobilisation and involvement of minor children during a protest held in Mumbai on October 2 and directed authorities to examine the allegations. The Commission has sought Action Taken Reports within one week from the Mumbai Police, Maharashtra’s Women and Child Development Department, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and social media platform X.

The action follows complaints alleging that children were brought to and involved in the protest, with photographs and videos of their participation subsequently circulated on social media. An NHRC Bench headed by Member Priyank Kanoongo issued the notices under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The Commission said the allegations raise concerns related to the dignity, safety, privacy and protection of children. CJP Protest Against CEC Gyanesh Kumar; Opposition Calls It Fight to ‘Save Democracy’, BJP Says ‘Fake Narrative’ Won’t Succeed.

NHRC directs Mumbai Police to examine evidence

The NHRC has directed the Mumbai Police Commissioner to examine videos, photographs, social media posts and other digital material linked to the alleged participation of minors. The police have also been asked to identify organisers, coordinators and adults who may have accompanied or facilitated the participation of children. Where the examination reveals cognisable offences, the Commission has directed that an FIR be registered and the matter investigated according to law.

The Commission has further called for the preservation and forensic examination of alleged group and chat communications concerning the planning or coordination of the protest. The digital material is to be examined to establish the roles of those involved and determine whether minors were deliberately mobilised.

X and MeitY Asked to Preserve Digital Evidence

The NHRC has also issued directions concerning material uploaded on social media. X and MeitY have been asked to preserve relevant digital evidence and provide information concerning the handling of posts involving children.

The complaints cited social media material allegedly showing a young child being held above a crowd while carrying the national flag and a placard. They also raised allegations about discussions concerning the participation of minors and whether their presence could discourage police action. These allegations are subject to verification. Mumbai: 75-Year-Old Man Dies of Heart Attack During CJP Protest at Shivaji Park.

Background to Mumbai protest

The protest in question was held in Mumbai on October 2 by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), with demonstrators demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations concerning electoral-roll revisions and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. The Election Commission and government have rejected allegations of manipulation of voter rolls.

The protest took place at Shivaji Park despite the Mumbai Police having earlier denied permission for the gathering. Reports said hundreds of people participated, while the demonstration also drew several public figures.

The NHRC's latest intervention is focused specifically on the allegations concerning minors. The Commission's inquiry is expected to establish how children came to be present at the protest and whether any individuals deliberately facilitated or encouraged their participation.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 03, 2026 06:42 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).