Delhi on high alert ahead of Jantar Mantar protest

Delhi has been placed under heightened security on October 10, 2026, ahead of a planned protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The demonstration, organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) alongside other groups, concerns alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Protesters are demanding accountability from the Election Commission, while the allegations remain contested.

Delhi Police has denied permission for the proposed gathering, citing insufficient advance notice and concerns about public safety, traffic and law and order. Despite the denial, organisers have indicated their intention to continue with the protest. Reports on October 10 said around 35,000 police and paramilitary personnel had been deployed across the capital, with barricades, checkpoints and additional surveillance in sensitive areas.

The security arrangements have also affected daily life. Entry and exit gates at 45 Delhi Metro stations have been restricted, while more than 250 train services have reportedly been cancelled or affected. Mobile internet services have been suspended within a four-kilometre radius of the Janpath–Kartavya Path area for a limited period. Traffic diversions and the closure of liquor shops have added to the disruption.

These measures have raised concerns among commuters, students, workers and business owners who depend on public transport and regular access to central Delhi. The Supreme Court has also stressed the need to balance security arrangements with the public’s right to access essential transport services.

The situation has triggered debate over how authorities should manage demonstrations while protecting public safety and citizens’ freedom to assemble peacefully. Whether the protest proceeds as planned, the challenge for officials is to maintain order without causing unnecessary hardship for ordinary residents.