Security was tightened in central Delhi on Friday ahead of a proposed demonstration at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Security has been strengthened across central Delhi, with police personnel deployed at key locations and arrangements made to regulate movement in and around Jantar Mantar.
Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel and a riot control vehicle were deployed at Jantar Mantar. Entry and exit gates of the nearby metro stations of Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Seva Teerth, Mandi House and Lok Kalyan Marg are closed till further notice. The protest has been called by the All India Students’ Association (AISA), Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan. In view of the expected turnout, additional security personnel have been sought from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. Security has been strengthened across central Delhi, with police personnel deployed at key locations and arrangements made to regulate movement in and around Jantar Mantar. Preventive arrangements have been made, and everyone is requested to follow the law and cooperate with the police. Necessary circulars, notifications and public awareness messages regarding roads and Metro services are being issued.”
On security arrangements for the Jantar Mantar protest, DCP New Delhi Sachin Sharma said, “Section 163 of the BNSS is in force in New Delhi, and protests, demonstrations, marches and similar activities are not permitted. As Section 163 is in force, people are advised not to come to the area for protests or demonstrations.
The Delhi Police has denied permission for the proposed demonstration and made additional security arrangements in view of the expected turnout, police sources said. A large number of people are expected to gather at Jantar Mantar for the protest, according to police. Police said further security measures would be taken depending on the situation and the movement of protesters in the area.
