Delhi is on high alert ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed “Lehra Do Tiranga” protest on Friday, with around 32,000 security personnel expected to be deployed across the Capital. While police have refused permission for a large march, officials said a small group of protesters could be allowed to hold a flag march at an alternative location.
Delhi Police will deploy more than 6,000 personnel in and around Connaught Place and central Delhi, in addition to around 26,000 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel stationed in the city. The protest, scheduled for 5 pm on October 16, is being organised to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.
Police deny permission for large gathering
CJP convenor Abhijeet Dipke announced the march after co-convenors Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were arrested on Tuesday. The two were sent to five days of judicial custody after they, along with other party members, allegedly climbed over a locked gate to enter Jantar Mantar, which is no longer a designated protest site.
Deputy Commissioner of Police and public relations officer Neha Yadav said prohibitory restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were already in force in Connaught Place and adjoining areas.
“The CJP has issued an appeal for a march at Central Park in Connaught Place at 5pm with a national flag. The Aam Aadmi Party has also urged its supporters and the public to join this protest and attend in large numbers,” Yadav said.
She added that the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) had informed police that Central Park would remain closed on October 16 and 17.
“We are ready to give permission to a select few protesters for a flag march at some other spot,” she said, appealing to people not to participate in gatherings that violate restrictions or disturb public order.
CCTV cameras, barricades put in place
Police have installed more than 10 CCTV cameras around Central Park and Rajiv Chowk to record any gathering and preserve evidence in case of violations. Officials said the turnout could reach 30,000-50,000 people.
Around 220 CAPF companies, comprising approximately 26,000 personnel, have been stationed in central Delhi and other key areas. Police may increase the deployment if the crowd grows during the night.
Barricades have also been placed near Connaught Place, Patel Chowk, ITO and Sansad Marg. Police are paying particular attention to Connaught Place, a busy commercial hub with heavy Friday footfall.
Market associations have sought protection for shops and establishments, citing concerns that large gatherings could disrupt business. Police have said action will be taken against those violating prohibitory orders.