Delhi on High Alert as CJP Plans March to Parliament Amid Security Buildup
New Delhi, July 19: The national capital witnessed a heavy security presence on Sunday as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) gathered at Jantar Mantar ahead of a planned march to Parliament on Monday. Riot control vehicles, barricades, and over 1,200 Delhi Police personnel were deployed across VIP areas and border points, with authorities citing the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament and the need to maintain public order.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke addressed a packed crowd at Jantar Mantar, stating that Monday's march would be the largest in independent India. He urged participants to remain peaceful, referencing activist Sonam Wangchuk's advice that a protest's success depends on non-violence. Dipke also called on supporters to bring the national flag, copies of the Constitution, flowers, or photos of B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi, and to report any potential troublemakers to volunteers.
The protest site was densely packed, with banners, slogans, and tents for students on hunger strike. Police presence increased notably, with officers stationed around the stage. CJP spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya estimated that around one lakh people could join the march, scheduled to depart for Parliament around 9 am on Monday. He added that some participants might remain at Jantar Mantar to protect the protest site. When asked about possible participation by the Congress party, Dahiya said he was unsure but noted that the CJP had invited all political parties.
In anticipation of the march, Delhi Police imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), citing lack of permission for the march and the need to prevent public disorder. DCP (New Delhi) Sachin Sharma said, 'As the Monsoon Session of Parliament is commencing from July 20, strict security arrangements are in place to ensure public safety, security of protectees, and the protection of vital government installations.' He warned that violators would face prosecution under relevant laws.
Barricades blocked several entry points around South Avenue Marg, and the area near Parliament was largely empty on Sunday night. Police sources indicated that protesters would not be allowed beyond Parliament Street police station. Security personnel included officers from the Delhi Police Crime Branch, local police, and paramilitary forces, with additional monitoring at borders with Uttar Pradesh and Haryana due to expected participation from farmer organisations.
The CJP-led protest has gained momentum following activist Sonam Wangchuk's 20-day hunger strike, which was interrupted when police took him to Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday. The march is expected to be a significant test of the capital's security apparatus.
