A fresh controversy has erupted after videos showing leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) dancing and celebrating following the resignation of former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan went viral on social media. While supporters described the celebrations as a moment of victory after a prolonged protest, critics questioned the timing, arguing that many volunteers and protesters were still struggling with basic needs.
The debate intensified after social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had observed a hunger strike during the movement, appealed for restraint in celebrating success. He said that every victory should be accompanied by humility, dignity and a sense of responsibility.
According to Wangchuk, achieving a goal is important, but how people conduct themselves after success also reflects the values of the movement. His remarks have been widely shared online as discussions over the viral videos continue.
The controversy gained further attention after commentator and YouTuber Meghnad, one of the early members associated with the online platform, criticised the celebrations. In a social media post, he claimed that several protesters who had spent weeks participating in the demonstration were left without proper arrangements for food or travel after the protest concluded.
Meghnad alleged that a group of volunteers had to arrange meals and transportation for stranded protesters using their own resources. He expressed disappointment that celebration videos surfaced while some participants were still facing hardships, saying that movements should prioritise the welfare of their volunteers.
The criticism has divided opinion on social media. Some users argued that celebrating a hard-earned achievement is natural, while others said movement leaders should have first ensured that every protester had safely returned home before organising festivities.
Responding to the backlash, CJP spokesperson Saurav Das defended the videos, saying they reflected the energy and culture of a younger generation of activists. He argued that modern protest movements can combine determination with optimism and that dancing should not be interpreted as a lack of commitment to the cause.
Das also clarified that the gathering was primarily organised to thank and honour volunteers who had contributed throughout the month-long protest. According to him, the viral clips showed only a small part of the event, while the larger programme included personal interactions and expressions of gratitude towards volunteers.
Despite the clarification, the controversy continues to generate debate online. The incident has shifted public discussion beyond the protest itself, raising broader questions about leadership, accountability, and how public movements should balance celebration with sensitivity towards those who contribute on the ground.
As reactions continue to pour in, the episode has become another reminder that public perception of a movement depends not only on its achievements but also on how its leaders conduct themselves after victory.
