Delhi Police has increased security measures in the vicinity of Ramlila Maidan in anticipation of the Congress-led INDIA coalition’s rally scheduled for November 1. Approximately 3,500 police personnel are set to be deployed, and the area will be monitored by over 200 CCTV cameras. The venue has been segmented into 14 distinct zones to facilitate crowd management and ensure public safety during the event.

According to reports from news agency PTI, the police have been collaborating closely with rally organisers, traffic police, and other relevant authorities to establish effective law-and-order arrangements. This coordination aims to manage traffic efficiently and ensure the smooth execution of the rally.

Joint Commissioner Madhur Verma has indicated that each of the 14 zones will be supervised by an officer of Assistant Commissioner of Police rank. Additionally, two zones will be managed by officers holding the rank of Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police. The security arrangements also include the use of body-worn cameras for police personnel and vehicles equipped with surveillance systems.

Political Context of the Rally

The upcoming rally is part of a broader series of political protests occurring in the national capital, primarily focused on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Opposition leaders are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that the SIR process is flawed. The rally is expected to attract significant attention and participation from various political factions.

Estimates suggest that over a million individuals may attend the rally, with around 15,000 to 20,000 buses, in addition to private vehicles of political leaders, anticipated to transport attendees. The Delhi Police issued a no-objection certificate for the event on October 27, clearing the way for the planned gathering.

On October 24, Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting at the Delhi Police headquarters. This meeting was attended by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and senior police officials, lasting nearly four hours. The discussions centred on reviewing the law-and-order situation in the capital, particularly concerning protests linked to the Election Commission and the SIR exercise.

Concerns Raised by Local Traders

Amid the security preparations, local traders have expressed apprehensions regarding the timing of the rally. The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has reached out to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, requesting a postponement of the event until after November 10. They cited potential disruptions to traffic that could adversely affect nearly 20 major markets surrounding Ramlila Maidan.

The rally is scheduled just days before significant festivals, including Dhanteras on November 6 and Diwali on November 8, which are crucial periods for traders. The CTI has warned that barricading, traffic diversions, and possible restrictions may hinder customer access and impede commercial activities.

Despite these concerns, Rahul Gandhi has reaffirmed the Congress party’s commitment to proceed with the rally. In a message posted on X, he addressed the traders of Delhi, asserting that the protest could be halted swiftly if Prime Minister Modi were to dismiss Gyanesh Kumar. This statement underscores the ongoing tensions between the opposition and the current government.

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