Delhi Braces for CJP Tiranga March: 6,000 Police Deployed, Central Park Shut
New Delhi: The Delhi Police has put extensive security arrangements in place in central Delhi ahead of a protest gathering called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Central Park in Connaught Place on Friday evening. Organisers have urged people to assemble at the park at 5 pm carrying the national flag, describing the event as a 'Tiranga March'. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has separately appealed to its workers, supporters and the general public to turn out in large numbers.
Officials said around 6,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in and around Connaught Place. Between 30 and 35 additional cameras equipped with audio and video recording capability have been installed to strengthen surveillance in the area.
The police have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in Connaught Place and adjoining areas. The provision, which replaced Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, allows authorities to restrict the assembly of people in a specified area. Anyone found violating the orders will face legal action, the police said.
Central Park closed
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has informed the Delhi Police that Central Park will remain closed on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons. The council has asked the police to prevent unauthorised entry into the park and to ensure its security. As a result, the park will stay shut for the general public on Friday and Saturday.
The police said the arrangements follow intelligence inputs indicating a possibility of disorder and violence during the protest. They have appealed to the public to refrain from joining the gathering, maintain peace and help avoid any untoward incident.
Flag protocol
The police have emphasised that the national flag must be displayed and the national anthem sung with due respect and in accordance with established protocols. They have indicated that they may facilitate a group of 11 people to sing the national anthem while holding the tricolour.
On Thursday, the Delhi Police assured the High Court that it would take all necessary measures to maintain law and order. It said a group of 11 individuals could be allowed to sing the national anthem at a suitable location, provided an appropriate venue is identified and all applicable rules are followed. Protests were also held at Connaught Place on Thursday, with police personnel deployed in strength in the area.
Traders concerned about business
Trader associations in Connaught Place and neighbouring markets have expressed concern that the protest could disrupt business. They point out that market footfall typically rises significantly during the festive season. While acknowledging the need for security, traders have stressed that normal commercial activity should not be affected, and have urged the police and the administration to ensure adequate protection while preventing any disruption.
Traffic advisory issued
The Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory warning of possible traffic disruptions in and around Connaught Place and New Delhi from 3 pm on Friday. Commuters have been advised to use public transport wherever possible. According to the police, diversions may be introduced depending on the situation on the ground, and motorists have been asked to follow the instructions of traffic personnel on duty and avoid routes likely to be affected.
Traffic movement may be affected on several major roads in New Delhi, including Sansad Marg, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Marg, Panchkuian Road, Basant Lane, Chelmsford Road, Minto Road, Barakhamba Road, Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Janpath. Disruptions are also expected in the vicinity of Rail Bhawan, Rafi Marg, C-Hexagon, Patel Chowk, Mandi House, Windsor Place and Gol Dak Khana, as well as along Ashoka Road.
