Delhi protest restrictions will affect retail liquor sales, selected train services and access to several Metro stations on October 10, as police prepare for demonstrations over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
The protests have been called by the Cockroach Janta Party, Left groups and student outfits of the Aam Aadmi Party. Demonstrators are also seeking the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Delhi Police have stepped up security and advised residents, students and young people to avoid activities that could disturb public order.
All retail liquor outlets in Delhi will remain closed on October 9 and 10 under an order issued by the excise department on October 8. The restriction covers outlets selling Indian liquor, foreign liquor and country liquor, along with certain liquor shops operating in malls. The excise department said the preventive measure was taken in view of the prevailing situation and inputs received from Delhi Police.
The closure does not extend to licensed restaurants, bars and clubs. An excise department official said these establishments would continue serving liquor as usual, distinguishing the retail-vend closure from a blanket suspension of liquor service across the city.
Rail travel to central Delhi may also be affected. According to a railway order issued on October 9, several Mail and Express trains scheduled to arrive at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway stations between 4am and 2pm on October 10 will be cancelled at their originating stations. The order applies to trains departing after 2pm on October 9 and scheduled to reach either station during the specified period.
Railway officials have not confirmed whether the cancellations are directly linked to the protests. The stated concern is the possibility of severe road congestion around the two stations, which could affect access for passengers and rail operations.
Delhi Police have also asked the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation to close entry and exit gates at 57 Metro stations from 9pm on October 9 and continue the restrictions on October 10 until the situation normalises. Train frequency at these stations may be reduced. Passengers have been advised to check DMRC updates before starting their journeys, as the affected stations and operating conditions may change.
Section 163 is in force in the national capital, and police have said gatherings held in violation of the restrictions will be considered illegal. Police teams have contacted market welfare associations, resident welfare associations and Aman committees in several areas, asking them to counsel people against participating in activities that could disturb public order.
Officers are also monitoring railway stations and other transit points, checking hotels for last-minute bookings and approaching groups gathered at these locations to inquire about their plans. No blanket closure of other regular public services or commercial establishments has been announced in the information available. Residents have been advised to check specific police, railway and Metro advisories before travelling or making plans on October 10.
