New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Saurabh Bharadwaj was detained on Friday by the police after he reached Jantar Mantar to join protests. While being
detained, the Delhi unit president of AAP alleged that male policemen mishandled women who had come to the site. He further alleged that the attitude of the policemen was a reflection of the government, as cops were doing as per orders. He added that protests would continue at the site.
Bharadwaj expressed confidence that people would reach Jantar Mantar despite the closure of various metro stations. “You might think there is police, some metro stations are closed, but you can reach wherever you want. With folded hands, I request everyone peacefully,” he added further.
Speaking to the reporters, he said as per ANI, “I want to tell all our young friends, boys, girls, and elders, that I have arrived alone, without any car, without any horse, and without any companion. I paid Rs 11 for the metro and Rs 80 to the auto driver. When I can reach Jantar Mantar for just Rs 91, all our friends can reach there too.”
Entry, exit points closed at various metro stations
The protests have been called by AAP as well as various student unions. They are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) electoral rolls. Taking to X, DMRC informed that entry and exit points at Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Seva Teerth, Mandi House, Lok Kalyan Marg, INA, Chawri Bazar, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg and New Delhi stations would remain closed till further notice.
Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory
The Delhi Traffic Police also advised commuters to avoid affected stretches as far as possible due to restrictions near Jantar Mantar and adjoining areas. As per the advisory, traffic from Connaught Place towards Patel Chowk will be diverted through alternate routes. Apart from these, movement from Patel Chowk towards GPO will either be regulated or diverted at some places.
