The Delhi Police has announced an extensive security plan ahead of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest scheduled for October 10. Over 20,000 security personnel are set to be deployed throughout New Delhi, central Delhi, and the borders of the national capital. The police have denied permission for the planned demonstration at Jantar Mantar, emphasizing the need for security measures to prevent unauthorized gatherings, uphold law and order, and restrict access to sensitive areas within the New Delhi district.

Coordination Between States and Delhi Police

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has communicated with police chiefs across all states and Union Territories, instructing them to coordinate with the Delhi Police as the October 10 protest approaches. The denial of permission was attributed to procedural adherence, past law-and-order issues, and concerns that large crowds could disrupt security and traffic. Intelligence inputs indicated that members of the CJP might try to enter Delhi despite these restrictions.

Deployment in Sensitive Zones

A radius of approximately 1.5 kilometers has been designated as a highly sensitive zone, encompassing Jantar Mantar, Janpath, the Election Commission, and the Delhi Police headquarters. More than 6,500 security personnel will be stationed in this area. Multiple layers of barricades have been established around Jantar Mantar, with at least seven barricades on access roads leading to the protest site. Loudspeakers have been placed at several sensitive points to broadcast announcements indicating that permission for the protest has not been granted, urging individuals to refrain from chanting slogans, damaging property, or confronting police officers.

Detention Centres Prepared for Unauthorised Gatherings

Senior officers of the Delhi Police have briefed personnel assigned for the protest, advising them to exercise restraint and manage the situation in a professional manner. Officers have been instructed specifically to remain calm in the face of provocation from protesters. According to authorities, any unauthorized gatherings will not be tolerated, and individuals arriving in Delhi for the protest may be detained at one of the twelve facilities that have been established for this purpose. The briefing also addressed potential provocations from self-identified independent journalists, indicating that appropriate actions may be taken if tensions escalate during the event.

Enhanced Surveillance Measures

In an effort to bolster surveillance, over 300 CCTV cameras equipped with audio and video capabilities have been installed at key locations in the New Delhi district. Additionally, body cameras will be utilized by senior officers, including those at the Additional Commissioner of Police level and above. Approximately 100 photographers and videographers have been engaged to document both the protest and the police response in real-time, with the footage serving as a potential resource in the event of law-breaking incidents.

Community Awareness Campaign Launched

The Delhi Police has initiated an awareness campaign utilizing community centres, mosques, and resident welfare associations. This initiative aims to inform the public that permission for the protest has not been granted, warning that individuals traveling to New Delhi for the event might face police intervention.

Accommodations in and around the city are being monitored, with hotel operators advised to notify police of any guests intending to participate in the protest. Notifications have also been communicated to Airbnb hosts to encourage vigilance.

Regarding the possibility of relocating the protest to Ramlila Maidan, the Delhi Police has confirmed that no application seeking permission for such a demonstration has been received. Organizers must submit a formal application that will be reviewed by the relevant authorities prior to any decision on the matter.

Focus on Documenting Police Conduct

The security plan also emphasizes the importance of accurately documenting police actions during the protest, particularly in light of previous criticisms regarding the handling of such events. Senior officers will supervise the situation on-site and make decisions based on real-time assessments. The police have reached out to residents in an open letter, requesting cooperation and underscoring that uniformed personnel are also members of the community, as they strive to maintain law and order amid the CJP protest on October 10.