Senior Delhi Police officers held a high-level meeting at the police headquarters on Friday to review the law and order situation ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed protest at Jantar Mantar
on October 10.
The meeting focused on the evolving security situation in the capital and the arrangements being put in place to prevent any disruption. Officers also discussed recent observations made by the Supreme Court, particularly its concerns over the impact of security measures on public transport and commuters.
The police are preparing for a potentially large turnout, with officials expecting more than 50,000 people from Delhi and neighbouring states to attend the proposed demonstration. Security has been expanded across the New Delhi district and other parts of the capital.
Delhi Police Denies Permission For CJP Protest
Delhi Police has denied permission for the CJP protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Joint Commissioner of Police Nupur Prasad said the application was submitted at short notice, while guidelines require advance notice for such demonstrations.
Police also cited alleged non compliance with directions and undertakings during an earlier CJP protest. The authorities said the decision was also taken keeping public safety, traffic management and the prevailing law and order situation in mind.
Restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita are currently in force in the New Delhi area. Police have warned that violations could lead to legal action.
37 Blocking Points, Detention Centres Planned
As part of the security plan, Delhi Police has prepared 37 blocking points across the New Delhi district and plans to use dedicated detention centres across all 15 districts if required. The arrangements are aimed at preventing large groups from moving towards Jantar Mantar and other sensitive areas.
Security has also been tightened at several Delhi borders, including Ghazipur, Chilla, Tikri, Singhu, Loni, Badarpur, Kapashera and Gurugram, with police monitoring movement towards the capital.
57 Metro Stations, Train Services Hit
The security preparations have also affected public transport. Delhi Police has asked the DMRC to close entry and exit gates at 57 Metro stations from 9 pm on Friday and keep restrictions in place on October 10 until the situation normalises. The police have cited concerns over large groups using stations to gather and move towards sensitive areas.
Several long-distance trains heading towards Delhi have also been cancelled or curtailed ahead of the protest.
The Supreme Court has meanwhile asked authorities to balance security requirements with public convenience, particularly in relation to Metro and railway services.
The CJP has maintained that it will go ahead with the protest despite the police denying permission.
