Full Breakdown
Imran Khan, Lekha Washington and Zayn Marie Detained During Mumbai Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) Protest
By Drooid · · How we work
The Detention at August Kranti Maidan
On October 10, 2026, actor Imran Khan, his partner Lekha Washington and his cousin Zayn Marie (Aamir Khan’s niece) arrived at August Kranti Maidan in south Mumbai to inquire about friends who had been detained. Police had erected barricades and a large media contingent was present. While Imran briefly addressed reporters, uniformed officers seized Lekha and Zayn, bruising both, and forced the trio into a police van. They were driven around for “a couple of hours” before being released later that evening. Lekha later posted that the police prevented them from catching a cab, forcing them to walk home.
Background and Context
The detention occurred during demonstrations organized by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by the civil group Hum Bharat Ke Log, led by Tushar Gandhi. Protesters demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Mumbai Police said the gathering lacked permission and cited a Bombay High Court order that restricts protests to Azad Maidan. CJP workers claim they had emailed the police for permission but received no response.
Data and Statistics
- Police deployment: more than 500 personnel, including a riot-control unit, were stationed near the maidan.
- Detentions: “Around 600 protesters were detained across Mumbai city. They have also been released. Further legal process is going on,” — Ms. Ragasudha; other outlets cited “more than 400 people” detained.
- FIR details: an FIR filed at Gamdevi police station named 12 accused (including Imran Khan, Tushar Gandhi, Prakash Reddy) and listed 350 additional persons, invoking Sections 223, 126(2), 189(2), 189(3) and 189(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
- Injuries: Zayn Marie posted images of bruises on her arms, fingers and legs; Lekha also reported bruising.
Official Statements and Responses
- Lekha Washington (Instagram): described the Mumbai Police as “a beacon of balance” and expressed gratitude for their conduct.
- CJP representatives: asserted that they had emailed the police for permission but received no reply.
Criticism and Opposition
Kirit Somaiya, BJP leader and former MP, demanded Imran Khan’s immediate deportation, questioning whether a foreign citizen could partake in “illegal political agitation.” He wrote to Mumbai Police Joint Commissioner Manoj Kumar Sharma seeking verification of Khan’s OCI status and alleged visa violations.
On-the-Ground Reports
“A stream of uniformed persons grabbed both Zayn and me, bruising us. They forced us all into the vehicle and then drove us around for a couple of hours. After that, they did not allow us to take public transport,” — Lekha Washington. Zayn’s video showed visible injury marks and a caption “INQUILAAB ZINDABAAD.” All three later shared videos confirming their safe release and describing a walk home after police allegedly threatened cab drivers.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
- Detention figures: The Hindu’s DCP cited “around 600” detainees, while other sources reported “more than 400.” Both numbers appear in official statements, leaving the exact count unresolved.
- Cause of injuries: Zayn’s bruises are documented visually, but no independent medical verification has been provided.
- Reason for detention: Police have not offered a specific charge beyond lack of permission; the FIR lists generic offenses, and protesters have not been given a clear explanation for the prolonged vehicle ride.
What’s Next
No additional hearings or deadlines have been announced as of the latest updates on October 11, 2026.