Delhi Police have tightened access and crowd-control arrangements in Connaught Place after a proposed CJP gathering at Central Park, with the force indicating that a group of 11 selected people may be permitted to carry the national flag and sing the national anthem under specified conditions.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Neha Yadav said the police could make arrangements for the group to use a suitable location in Connaught Place. The permission would require compliance with rules governing the carrying and display of the national flag and the singing of the national anthem, while maintaining respect, dignity and decorum, according to the report.
The development follows an appeal by CJP through social media and a press conference asking members of the public to assemble at Central Park at 5 pm 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 was in force in Connaught Place and adjoining areas. The provision has been cited by the police in the context of maintaining peace, protecting the public and preventing damage to property. The force appealed to residents and visitors not to join any gathering that violates the order and warned that legal action would follow violations.
The New Delhi Municipal Council has separately informed Delhi Police that Central Park would remain closed on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons. The civic body asked the police to make strong security arrangements at the public park and prevent unauthorised entry. The closure places the management of access to one of Connaught Place’s most prominent public spaces at the centre of the security response.
The restrictions also carry implications for Connaught Place’s retail and commercial activity during the festive season. Various trader organisations and market associations have approached the police, expressing concern that disruptive elements and unlawful gatherings could affect business. Connaught Place is a high-footfall commercial district, and any restrictions around its central public space can affect customers, employees, shopkeepers and movement through adjoining areas.
The issue has also reached the Delhi High Court in a related matter involving concerns over disruption to commercial activity. Delhi Police told the court that appropriate steps would be taken after considering the petitioner’s concerns. The supplied report does not indicate that the court has ordered a general prohibition on the proposed activity.
For the immediate security operation, the police have asked people to maintain peace in Connaught Place, avoid obstructing shopkeepers and comply with the restrictions in force. The next stated milestones are the Central Park closure on October 16 and 17 and the proposed gathering scheduled for 5 pm, subject to the conditions communicated by Delhi Police.
