Security was significantly increased in central Delhi on Friday in anticipation of a planned demonstration at Jantar Mantar. The protest is aimed at addressing concerns regarding alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar being a key target of the organisers’ grievances. In light of the situation, the Delhi Police has denied permission for the protest.

Additional security personnel have been deployed, including members of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and a riot control vehicle stationed at Jantar Mantar to maintain order. The police expect a considerable turnout, which has prompted the implementation of stricter security protocols.

In connection with these security measures, entry and exit gates of several nearby metro stations have been closed until further notice. The affected stations include Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Seva Teerth, Mandi House, and Lok Kalyan Marg.

Metro Station Closures in Central Delhi

The Delhi Metro has temporarily closed 11 stations in the vicinity of the protest site, namely Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Seva Teerth, Mandi House, Lok Kalyan Marg, INA, Chawri Bazar, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, and New Delhi. Passengers are advised to look for alternative travel routes, although interchange facilities will still be available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, INA, New Delhi, and Central Secretariat stations.

This decision to close stations is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety and manage the potential crowd that might assemble at Jantar Mantar. The closure is expected to remain in effect until the situation is evaluated and deemed safe for normal operations.

Organised by activist groups such as the All India Students’ Association (AISA), along with Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan, the protest seeks the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Allegations concerning irregularities in electoral rolls and election conduct form the core of their demands.

Ongoing Debate Surrounds Electoral Roll Revision

The upcoming demonstration comes amidst ongoing political discourse regarding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and the functionality of the Election Commission. The police have highlighted that they anticipate a large gathering of demonstrators and have requested additional forces from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to reinforce security in the area.

In light of this situation, the police have stated that they will continue to monitor developments and adjust security measures as needed. DCP New Delhi, Sachin Sharma, explained that Section 163 of the BNSS is currently applicable in New Delhi. This regulation prohibits protests, demonstrations, marches, and similar activities.

Sharma urged members of the public to adhere to the law and cooperate with law enforcement. Authorities are actively disseminating circulars, notifications, and public advisories to inform citizens about the road and metro service changes due to the protest.

These events were reportedly prompted by findings from The Indian Express, which detailed multiple objections raised by Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi regarding various decisions associated with the SIR exercise and electoral procedures over the last ten months.

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