Delhi’s new designated protest site Ramlila Maidan not free till end of 2026; has only 3 open days
Delhi's Ramlila Maidan has been designated as a new protest site, but it is currently unavailable for bookings until the end of 2026 due to existing event commitments. Critics and opposition leaders argue that the high costs and lack of availability effectively restrict the public's right to protest.
Why it matters
The restriction of accessible protest venues in the capital raises significant concerns regarding the democratic right to assembly and freedom of speech.
Ramlila Maidan, designated as one of the three new protest sites in the capital, has no free dates for the next two and a half months. Only December 29, 30 and 31 are open for booking, according to officials.
The 12-acre ground, which can accommodate 50,000 people, can now be booked only for the three dates towards the end of the years, officials in the know said.
"The booking rate for the ground is ₹50,000 per day, plus a ₹55,000 security deposit that is refundable. The initial outlay including taxes comes to ₹1.21 lakh for a day's booking," an official said.
Civic officials clarified that a small portion of the ground is free for protests and gatherings, but it has a capacity of only 150 people.
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