CJI Surya Kant Clarifies ‘Cockroach Remark’, Says Remarks Were Misrepresented With Malicious Intent

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Friday said that his oral observations during a Supreme Court hearing were "misrepresented" and later used with "malafide intent" to mislead the youth of the country.

In an interview with DD News, CJI Surya Kant clarified that statements attributed to him were never actually made in the manner they were presented.

“What Was Never Said Was Presented as If It Was Said”: CJI Surya Kant

"My remark was misrepresented and misused. Something that was never said was portrayed as if it had been said. This is extremely unfortunate. In particular, it is a major and malicious attempt to mislead the youth of the country," the Chief Justice said.

Expressing concern over the spread of incomplete information on digital platforms, CJI Surya Kant highlighted how short clips of court proceedings are often circulated on social media without proper context.

He said that everyone, whether associated with social media, print media, other forms of journalism, or an ordinary citizen, enjoys certain rights but must also fulfil constitutional duties and responsibilities.

"When we speak of rights, we must also possess the capacity to fulfil our duties. I would urge everyone to keep their responsibilities in mind. We must continuously work towards maintaining harmony in society," he added.

What Is The ‘Cockroach’ Remark Controversy?

The controversy dates back to a Supreme Court hearing on May 15, 2026, during which CJI Surya Kant allegedly made remarks regarding individuals involved in obtaining fake degrees.

The remarks were interpreted by some sections as a comparison of such individuals with "cockroaches". The statement triggered criticism among sections of students and young people, eventually leading to the emergence of a satirical online movement called the ‘Cockroach Janata Party’ (CJP).

What started as an online protest movement later developed into a larger campaign, with the group organising demonstrations against the NEET-UG paper leak issue at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.

The protest continued for more than a month and witnessed tensions between demonstrators and police personnel on July 20, 2026, after clashes broke out, leaving several people injured.

The movement gained nationwide attention following the protests, after which then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from his position.

CJI Surya Kant’s latest clarification has reignited discussions over the importance of context in reporting judicial remarks and the responsibility of citizens and media platforms while sharing information online.