A proposed protest at Jantar Mantar on 10 October has prompted extensive security and transport restrictions across central Delhi, with commuters travelling through New Delhi and central areas advised to allow extra time and avoid non-essential journeys.
The restrictions were put in place ahead of an event organised by the Cockroach Janta Party, or CJP, according to a report by Live Hindustan – NCR. YouTuber Dhruv Rathee has reached Delhi and appealed to people on social media to attend the protest. In a video recorded near India Gate, Rathee alleged that the security measures had created lockdown-like conditions in the city and claimed that the government was attempting to prevent people from reaching the demonstration.
Those political allegations could not be independently established from the material supplied with the report. The report said Delhi Police had denied permission for the 10 October protest, citing the short notice, alleged non-compliance with earlier directions, and concerns related to public safety, law and order and traffic management.
Live Hindustan – NCR reported that between 23,000 and 26,000 personnel had been deployed for security arrangements. The deployment reportedly includes Delhi Police as well as personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force, Sashastra Seema Bal, Indo-Tibetan Border Police and Central Industrial Security Force.
The transport restrictions have affected the Delhi Metro, rail services and road movement. The report initially stated that 57 metro stations had been ordered closed, but later said the number had been reduced to 45 following a Supreme Court order. The supplied report does not provide the names of the affected stations or details of the order.
It also reported that trains bound for New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin from other states had been cancelled, while trains travelling towards Delhi were undergoing intensive checks. Delhi Police was further reported to have sealed city borders and increased checking in several areas. Internet services in the New Delhi area were also reported to have been suspended, although the report did not specify the affected networks or the duration of any such restriction.
The Delhi Traffic Police has advised passengers travelling through New Delhi and central Delhi to reach railway stations, interstate bus terminals and the airport with additional time. It has also advised residents to avoid non-essential travel in the affected areas.
The proposed protest has received support from the All India Students’ Association, the Students’ Federation of India and the All India Students’ Federation, according to the report. Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal was also reported to have said that he would attend with his family.
The immediate operational question for commuters is whether the reported station closures, train cancellations and road restrictions will remain in force throughout 10 October. The supplied report does not provide a complete official schedule for the restrictions or a confirmed end time for the security measures.
