Security was tightened across central Delhi on Friday ahead of a proposed protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Delhi Police said permission for the protest had not been granted and imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in New Delhi district.
Under the order, gatherings of five or more people, processions, demonstrations and dharnas are not allowed without prior written permission. Police have also restricted activities such as shouting slogans or making speeches without permission.
The restrictions have also affected Delhi Metro services. Entry and exit at 11 stations have been closed until further notice. These include Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Seva Teerth, Mandi House, Lok Kalyan Marg, INA, Chawri Bazar, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg and New Delhi. Interchange facilities remain available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, New Delhi and Central Secretariat. Traffic movement has also been regulated around Connaught Place, Patel Chowk, GPO, Tolstoy Marg, Jantar Mantar Road and Parliament Street. Commuters have been advised to avoid Jantar Mantar, Ashoka Road and nearby roads wherever possible and use alternative routes.
Police have deployed additional personnel and barricades around sensitive areas. Officials said the measures were taken to maintain public order, ensure safety and keep traffic moving smoothly. The proposed protest has been called by student groups and other organisers over concerns related to the Election Commission and electoral roll revision.
