Internet suspended near Jantar Mantar for 24 hours from 10 pm; CP shops to shut ahead of CJP protest

Authorities announced a 24-hour suspension of internet services in areas around Jantar Mantar from 10 pm on Friday, while shops and commercial establishments in Connaught Place were advised to remain closed ahead of Saturday's proposed protest against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.

The restrictions came as Delhi Police stepped up security arrangements across central Delhi in anticipation of the demonstration called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), whose supporters have vowed to assemble at Jantar Mantar despite the denial of police permission.

The internet suspension, scheduled to remain in force until 10 pm on Saturday, added to a series of preventive measures announced ahead of the protest, including restrictions on Metro services, railway operations and movement around important government establishments.

The advisory to Connaught Place traders raised concerns over the possible impact on commercial activity in one of the capital's busiest shopping and business districts. The advice to close establishments should, however, be distinguished from a legally enforceable closure order.

Internet blackout covers 4-km radius

According to the order reported on Friday, the internet suspension will cover areas within a 4-km radius of the Janpath-Kartavya Path intersection, rather than being confined to Jantar Mantar alone. The restriction is scheduled to operate from 10 pm on October 9 until 10 pm on October 10.

Commercial activity disrupted

Reports said shops, restaurants and offices in Connaught Place had been advised to close as a precaution, while some schools and colleges shifted classes online or postponed examinations. The measures added to uncertainty among traders, employees and residents over the extent of disruption expected on Saturday.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation also announced restrictions on entry and exit at 57 stations from 9 pm on Friday, although interchange facilities would remain available at most affected stations. Separately, security preparations included 37 blocking points in New Delhi district and designated detention centres across Delhi's 15 police districts.

Police cite security concerns

Delhi Police said permission for the CJP demonstration had been denied because the organisers submitted their application only three days before the event and had allegedly violated conditions during an earlier protest. The organisers, however, maintained that the demonstration would proceed.

The developments have intensified scrutiny of the government's security response, particularly after the Supreme Court questioned sweeping transport restrictions and emphasised the need for proportionate measures that protect ordinary commuters.

With the internet suspension scheduled to begin late Friday and the protest planned for Saturday, the authorities faced the task of maintaining public order while limiting disruption to essential services and commercial activity.