Jantar Mantar Protest: Why Did 500+ People Get Detained?

On October 2, 2026, a protest over the functioning of the Election Commission and the revision of electoral rolls took place around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Student organisations, activists and political groups participated in the demonstration, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Protesters raised concerns about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and alleged irregularities in the process.

Delhi Police had denied permission for the proposed demonstration and imposed restrictions around Jantar Mantar under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. Heavy barricading and additional security personnel were deployed in central Delhi. Several groups attempting to reach the protest site were stopped by police, while the authorities cited restrictions and public-order concerns.

According to Hindustan Times, more than 500 protesters were detained, including political leaders and activists. Later, Indian Express reported that police said the number of detentions had crossed 700 by the afternoon. The detentions included former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj and student activist Neha Bora.

The protest also led to significant security and transport measures. Several Delhi Metro stations were temporarily closed, while traffic restrictions were imposed around Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street and nearby roads. The episode has renewed public debate over electoral-roll revision, the Election Commission's functioning and the management of demonstrations in the capital.