Jagran Correspondent, New Delhi: Security arrangements have been tightened across the national capital ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) proposed protest at Jantar Mantar on October 10. The demonstration, led by founder Abhijeet Dipke, is demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged discrepancies in the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
To prevent a repeat of the July protest, the Delhi Police are taking a series of preemptive measures.
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Heavy Security Deployment Across National Capital
An additional 11,000 personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) are being deployed, bringing the total number of central force personnel in the city to nearly 26,000, marking one of the largest security deployments in Delhi since the 2020 northeast Delhi riots, Hindustan Times reported.
In addition, around 20,000 Delhi Police personnel are likely to be deployed. Barricades and vehicle checks have been increased at all major border points and roads leading into the New Delhi district.
No Permission Granted For Jantar Mantar Protest
The Delhi Police have said that no permission has been granted for any protest at Jantar Mantar or other areas in the New Delhi district, citing law and order concerns. Officials warned the public against participating in unauthorised gatherings.
"Section 163 is in effect, meaning protests are not permitted—neither at Jantar Mantar nor anywhere else," said Delhi Police DCP Shrishti Pandey. "Any gathering will be considered illegal, and we would be compelled to take necessary legal action against it. I would like to urge the protestors not to participate in such illegal gatherings," news agency ANI quoted Delhi Police DCP Shrishti Pandey as saying.
"Please prioritise your own safety as well. Also, consider the safety of your family. Regarding protests that are illegal—there is a proper way to participate in the process. By joining an illegal protest, you could end up facing long-term legal consequences," she added.
Monitoring Of Social Media Influencers And Stage Setups
Police are keeping a close watch on social media influencers and YouTubers who may cover or support CJP leaders, including Abhijeet Dipke, Ashutosh Ranka, and Saurav Das. Authorities are working to ensure social media creators do not enter the New Delhi district to reach Jantar Mantar.
Security agencies are also monitoring online activity to prevent online calls from building up crowds. Additionally, police are blocking the setup of temporary stages, loudspeakers, or public address systems around the protest site.
Drone Surveillance And Record Checks
On October 10, police will conduct aerial surveillance using drones to monitor potential crowds, small-group gatherings and any attempts to breach barricades in real time.
Police are also reviewing records from previous CJP protests to identify individuals who may pose law and order risks.
CJP's Response
CJP leaders, however, continue to ask supporters to gather in Delhi for the October 10 protest.
"We have come here to provide intimation; there is no scope for rejection or acceptance; we have simply informed you," said CJP co-convenor Saurav Das regarding their formal letter to the police.
Das added that if protesters are stopped en route to Jantar Mantar, they will hold their demonstration wherever they are halted.