Heavy police deployment, barricades restrict entry to Jantar Mantar; several protesters detained
Delhi police implemented heavy security and prohibitory orders at Jantar Mantar to prevent a protest against the Election Commission. Over 500 individuals, including former Chief Minister Atishi, were detained as authorities blocked access to the site.
Why it matters
The event highlights ongoing tensions regarding civil liberties, the right to protest, and the use of administrative restrictions in the Indian capital.
New Delhi turned into a fortress on Gandhi Jayanti due to heavy police deployment and barricading at Jantar Mantar, restricting the entry of people attempting to protest against the conduct of the Election Commission (EC).
Prohibitory orders were enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the Parliament Street subdivision, where the protest site is located. The order restricts public meetings, assembly of five or more persons, carrying firearms, banners, placards, lathis, spears, swords, sticks, or brickbats, shouting slogans, making speeches, and holding processions, demonstrations, or dharnas. Section 163 was imposed on the entire subdivision except for the actual protest site, where demonstrations were allowed until 5 p.m. with permission.
However, entry to the protest site was blocked, preventing protesters from reaching the area.
Also covering this story
2 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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