Delhi Police has intensified security at Connaught Place ahead of the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) proposed ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ rally at Central Park on Friday.
Heavy security arrangements have been made inside Central Park near Gate No. 1, while personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) have been deployed near Gate No. 2 of Palika Bazaar.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Narra Chaitanya said all necessary arrangements were in place to maintain peace and ensure the smooth management of the situation.
Delhi Traffic Police has also issued an advisory warning that traffic movement on roads in and around Connaught Place could be affected from 3 PM onwards.
Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow sufficient travel time, use public transport wherever possible and follow instructions issued by traffic personnel. Diversions may be implemented depending on the prevailing situation, the advisory stated.
Police Cites Public Safety Concerns
Delhi Police has issued a notice to Dipke regarding the proposed demonstration, citing concerns over public safety, traffic congestion and the maintenance of law and order.
According to the notice, an appeal was made on social media for people to gather at Connaught Place at 5 PM, despite the absence of legal permission for the proposed demonstration.
Police pointed out that Connaught Place is a busy commercial area with limited entry and exit routes, making crowd management and emergency evacuation challenging. The proposed gathering could also affect business activities and the livelihoods of traders and employees in the area, the notice stated.
The notice further highlighted the presence of Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, which connects the Blue and Yellow lines and handles an average daily footfall of around two lakh passengers. Police expressed concern that an increase in crowds could lead to congestion, disorder and the risk of a stampede.
Potential disruption to traffic in Central Delhi and access to hospitals and emergency services were also cited as concerns. Police additionally referred to Connaught Place’s proximity to Parliament, the Central Secretariat and diplomatic areas.
Restrictions and Legal Provisions
The police notice referred to restrictive orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). It warned that violations could invite action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other applicable laws.
Invoking Sections 29 to 33 of the Delhi Police Act, 1978, the notice directed Dipke not to organise demonstrations, processions or rallies in the area, carry items that could be used as weapons, or use loudspeakers.
Police also cited the Supreme Court’s judgment in Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan vs Union of India, highlighting the need to consider public demonstrations in the context of traffic movement, public safety and public order.
According to the notice, Connaught Place is not a notified site for demonstrations, and prior permission is required for protests at designated locations.
-ANI
