Delhi Police has imposed restrictions around Connaught Place ahead of a proposed protest and indicated that only a selected group of 11 people may be allowed to carry the national flag and sing the national anthem at a designated location, while the Central Park will remain closed on October 16 and 17.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Neha Yadav said the police could make arrangements to permit the group associated with CJP to carry the flag and sing the national anthem, subject to compliance with legal requirements governing the use and carrying of the national flag. She said the flag and the anthem would have to be treated with respect, dignity and decorum.
The police statement followed an appeal by CJP through social media and a press conference asking members of the public to gather at Central Park at 5 pm on Friday, October 16, with the national flag. The Aam Aadmi Party has also supported the proposed protest and called on its workers and supporters to attend in large numbers.
Delhi Police said Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita had been imposed in Connaught Place and nearby areas in view of the law-and-order situation. The order is intended to maintain peace, protect the public and prevent damage to property. Police have appealed to residents not to join gatherings that violate the order and warned that legal action would follow any breach.
The New Delhi Municipal Council has informed the police that Central Park will remain closed on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons. According to the police, the civic body has requested enhanced security at the public park and asked that unauthorised people not be allowed to enter.
The restrictions are also linked to concerns raised by traders and market associations in Connaught Place. Several business organisations have submitted applications to the police, saying that disruptive activity and unlawful gatherings could affect commercial operations during the festive season. Police have asked people not to disturb peace in the area or obstruct shopkeepers’ businesses.
The issue has also featured in proceedings before the Delhi High Court. In a related matter involving concerns about disruption to commercial activity, Delhi Police assured the court that appropriate steps would be taken while keeping the petitioner’s concerns in mind.
The police have asked the public to follow the Section 163 order and comply with directions issued at the site. The immediate arrangements cover the proposed Friday gathering, the closure of Central Park on October 16 and 17, and security deployment in and around Connaught Place.
