Mumbai, Maharashtra: A 75-year-old man died during a protest organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Shivaji Park in Mumbai on Friday, October 2, 2026, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti. The man reportedly suffered severe chest pain during the protest and later died at a nearby hospital. The preliminary cause of death has been attributed to a heart attack.
According to police, the deceased was identified as Gopalkrishna Subbaiah Pillai, a resident of Dosti West County in neighbouring Thane. Pillai had reached Shivaji Park at around 4:30 pm to participate in the CJP protest.
Police said that approximately half an hour after reaching the protest venue, Pillai complained of severe chest pain at around 5 pm. His friends and police personnel present at the spot immediately took him to a nearby hospital for treatment. However, he died during treatment.
Protest Over SIR and Election Commission
The CJP protest was organised over issues surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleged irregularities in elections and what the organisers described as “vote theft”. The protesters also demanded the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar from office.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke addressed the gathering and called for Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation. A large number of young supporters attended the protest, carrying placards and posters featuring satirical messages, memes and references from popular films.
Some of the placards carried slogans such as “Gyanesh BRO, Just Resign” and “Gaddaar Gyaanu Must Go”. Other protesters raised slogans questioning the functioning of the electoral system and the credibility of the Election Commission.
Heavy Security Arrangements at Shivaji Park
Mumbai Police had made extensive security arrangements in and around Shivaji Park ahead of the protest. Barricades were installed at several locations and additional personnel were deployed to manage the gathering and maintain law and order.
The protest had been a matter of discussion in the city after police had initially raised objections to holding the event at Shivaji Park. Concerns reportedly included restrictions governing the use of the ground, permissions and traffic management.
Despite the restrictions and security arrangements, supporters of the CJP gathered at the venue in significant numbers.
The death of Pillai occurred amid the large gathering. Police personnel and fellow protesters responded after he complained of chest pain and ensured that he was taken to hospital.
The incident has drawn attention to the importance of medical assistance and emergency response arrangements at large public gatherings. However, according to the preliminary information available from the police, Pillai’s death is believed to have resulted from a cardiac event.
The CJP protest continued to attract attention as participants raised demands concerning the electoral process and the Election Commission. Further details regarding the circumstances surrounding Pillai’s death are expected as authorities complete the necessary procedures.
