'I was slut-shamed' - Indian women 'cockroach' protesters doxxed and abused

Indian women who participated in the recent anti-government protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) have faced severe online harassment, including doxxing, sexual abuse threats, and targeted attacks following their involvement in the demonstrations. The incidents have sparked concern over the safety of activists, particularly women, amid growing tensions between protesters and authorities. The CJP, a youth-driven movement that gained prominence through social media campaigns, has drawn both support and criticism for its tactics, which included satirical content and direct challenges to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The protests, which took place on 20 July, saw thousands of participants marching toward Parliament in Delhi, demanding accountability and reforms. However, the demonstration turned violent when police deployed tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowd. According to Delhi police, 60 protesters and 118 officers sustained injuries, though the CJP claims the actual number of injured protesters is much higher. The incident triggered widespread public outrage and further fueled the movement’s momentum. In the aftermath, several protesters have found themselves under legal scrutiny, with police initiating criminal cases against some individuals. Yet, beyond the formal legal actions, a different form of persecution has emerged online. Women involved in the protests have described receiving rape threats, having their personal information shared publicly, and facing misogynistic abuse on social media platforms. Some have even reported strangers accessing their private photos and videos, leading to heightened anxiety and fear among participants. One content creator, who attended the protest for the first time on 20 July, recounted how she began sharing firsthand experiences on Instagram after witnessing the police crackdown. Her posts quickly drew attention, but so did the backlash. She described being subjected to “slut-shaming” and targeted for questioning the prime minister’s remarks, which called for forgiveness for those who had insulted him. Despite blocking numerous users and deleting offensive messages, she continues to receive threatening communications. As a content creator, she noted that the constant scrutiny and fear of harassment are part of the reality for many women online, especially in India. A college student, who joined the protest for the first time, expressed similar concerns. Though she initially felt empowered by participating in the demonstration, she soon realized the risks associated with being visible in the movement. Her experience highlights the broader issue of gender-based violence and intimidation faced by women in public activism. The student emphasized that the fear of retaliation extends beyond physical harm, encompassing psychological distress and the loss of privacy. The situation has prompted discussions within families and communities. One participant mentioned that her mother stopped reading the comments on her social media posts due to the disturbing nature of the messages. This reflects a common parental reaction to the online dangers faced by daughters, reinforcing traditional societal expectations placed upon women to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Authorities have yet to address the specific instances of online harassment systematically. While some victims have filed complaints with the police, others remain hesitant to come forward due to fears of further repercussions. Legal experts suggest that existing laws may not adequately cover digital crimes, leaving many victims without sufficient recourse. The CJP’s reliance on social media as a tool for mobilization has amplified both its reach and the vulnerability of its members. The movement’s use of humor and satire to critique government policies has resonated with younger audiences, but it has also exposed participants to targeted abuse. As the protests continue to influence public discourse, the need for robust protections for activists, particularly women, has become increasingly evident.