A lecture by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant at the University of London’s Birkbeck campus drew controversy after a tense exchange during the question-and-answer session. Attendees raised concerns regarding freedom of dissent in India and remarks linked to the term “cockroach” during discussions on artificial intelligence and international law.
A lecture delivered by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant at the University of London’s Birkbeck campus on June 4 became the centre of controversy after a tense exchange unfolded during the question-and-answer session. The event, which focused on the theme “Artificial Intelligence and International Law,” was interrupted when certain attendees attempted to raise questions regarding freedom of dissent in India and the Chief Justice’s recent controversial remarks involving the term “cockroach.“
The incident occurred at the conclusion of the CJI’s address, which examined the growing role of artificial intelligence in legal systems and international governance. While the lecture itself proceeded without disruption, the atmosphere changed during the interactive session when audience members sought to raise issues unrelated to the subject of the lecture.
Questions on Dissent and Democratic Space
One attendee questioned the Chief Justice regarding concerns raised by legal observers about the state of democratic freedoms and dissent in India. Referring to criticism from both domestic and international quarters, the attendee stated:
“We now hear from a number of legal observers within the country as well as internationally that there’s a great deal of concern about growing hostility to dissent within India. And it does seem that this hostility is somewhat reflected in His Lordship’s speech and it’s very well publicised.”
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The question appeared aimed at drawing a connection between broader concerns regarding democratic discourse in India and recent public comments attributed to the Chief Justice.
Shortly thereafter, another participant sought clarification regarding the CJI’s controversial “cockroach” remarks made during court proceedings in India. However, before either question could be fully addressed, the moderator intervened and declined to permit further discussion on the issue.
Moderator Stops the Exchange
The moderator explained that the questions fell outside the scope of the event’s subject matter and stated:
“With all due respect, I would not be able to take up that question since the topic is concerning artificial intelligence and international law.”
Video clips circulating on social media later showed visible unrest among sections of the audience. Some attendees reportedly stood up and gestured while expressing dissatisfaction with the decision to halt the discussion. As the situation became increasingly tense, organisers attempted to restore order.
In one of the videos, organisers can be heard appealing to the audience:
“Please, let’s just calm and put an end to this, can we? Thank you.”
The exchange has since generated considerable discussion online, with differing views emerging regarding academic freedom, public discourse, and the appropriateness of raising politically sensitive questions during a specialised legal lecture.
Reacting to the incident, the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom issued a statement on Friday condemning the disruption. The High Commission noted that the event had featured a constructive and engaging discussion following the lecture before a participant attempted to derail the proceedings.
Describing the conduct as inappropriate, the statement said:
“Such indecorous behaviour is unacceptable and inconsistent with respectful engagement that should govern public discourse. Differences of option are a natural part of a democratic society. However, they must be expressed in a manner that is civil and respectful.”
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The diplomatic mission emphasised the importance of maintaining decorum and civility during public events, particularly those involving members of the judiciary.
Background: The Controversial ‘Cockroach’ Remarks
The controversy stems from oral observations made by CJI Surya Kant during a hearing before the Supreme Court on May 15. During the proceedings, the Chief Justice expressed concern about certain unemployed youth who, according to him, were moving away from productive employment and instead engaging in social media activism and excessive use of the Right to Information (RTI) mechanism.
In the course of his remarks, the Chief Justice stated that such youngsters, “like cockroaches,” were becoming “parasites” in society.
The comments quickly attracted widespread attention and criticism on social media platforms. Many users interpreted the remarks as directed at activists and young citizens raising questions about governance and public accountability.
Subsequently, the Chief Justice clarified that his observations were not aimed at genuine activists or citizens exercising legal rights. He explained that the remarks were intended for individuals possessing fake degrees who misuse such platforms and activities without making meaningful contributions to society.
Despite the clarification, the remarks continued to generate debate and became a focal point of online political satire and criticism.
The controversy also led to the emergence of the “Cockroach Janta Party” (CJP), a satirical digital movement that adopted the term as a symbol of protest. The movement gained traction on social media and began attracting support from students, activists, content creators and several public personalities.
Its founder, Abhijeet Dipke, used the Chief Justice’s remarks as a rallying point to highlight concerns relating to unemployment, educational administration and institutional accountability. The movement subsequently transformed from an online campaign into an organised protest initiative.
Clips from the London event were widely shared by individuals associated with the CJP, who argued that the interruption reflected larger concerns about public accountability and criticism of public institutions.
The disruption during CJI Surya Kant’s London lecture has added another chapter to the ongoing debate surrounding the Chief Justice’s earlier remarks and the larger public conversation about dissent, accountability and democratic engagement.
While organisers maintained that the event was intended to focus exclusively on artificial intelligence and international law, critics argued that public figures, particularly those occupying constitutional offices, should be open to questions on matters of public concern.
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