Union Minister Athawale Invites Cockroach Janta Party Founder Dipke to Join RPI

Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment and Rajya Sabha MP Ramdas Athawale on Monday said he had invited Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), to join the Republican Party of India (RPI).

Athawale said his party would welcome Dipke if he decided to accept the offer. However, the minister clarified that Dipke had not yet agreed to join the RPI.

Explaining the invitation, Athawale said the Republican Party was founded on the principles of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar and needed greater participation from young people, including members of Generation Z, to strengthen its political base.

Athawale Seeks Greater Participation From Gen Z

Athawale’s invitation signals an effort to attract younger voices into the RPI and expand its outreach among a new generation of voters.

Emphasising the importance of youth participation, the minister said young people could contribute fresh perspectives and energy to the party’s political activities.

The RPI, which draws its ideological foundation from the teachings and legacy of Dr B R Ambedkar, has historically focused on social justice, equality and the rights of disadvantaged communities.

Athawale’s remarks suggest that bringing younger people into the party is part of an effort to strengthen its organisational presence and connect with changing political aspirations.

Abhijeet Dipke Yet to Accept the Offer

Dipke, who founded the Cockroach Janta Party, has not yet accepted Athawale’s invitation, leaving his political plans unclear.

Athawale said the RPI would be open to welcoming him should he decide to join. However, no formal announcement regarding Dipke’s entry into the party had been made at the time of the minister’s statement.

The invitation has brought attention to the possibility of cooperation between an established political party and a newer political initiative associated with younger people.

RPI Looks to Expand Its Political Base

Athawale has been a prominent figure in Dalit politics and has served as Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment. The Republican Party of India is associated with the Ambedkarite movement and advocates social equality and the empowerment of marginalised sections of society.

The minister’s outreach to Dipke reflects the importance established parties place on attracting younger supporters and adapting to the interests of a new generation.

Whether Dipke accepts the invitation remains to be seen. For now, Athawale has made clear that the door is open for the CJP founder to join the RPI, with youth participation and the Ambedkarite ideological tradition at the centre of his appeal.