Delhi Police Removes Jantar Mantar as Designated Protest Site, Names Three New Venues
Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in East Delhi have been designated for protests following a Supreme Court observation on alternative venues.
New Delhi: The Delhi Police has removed Jantar Mantar from the list of designated protest sites and named three alternative venues for demonstrations in the national capital, according to an official order.
Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued the standing order on October 11, designating Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in East Delhi as the new venues for protests and demonstrations.
The decision comes amid heightened security arrangements in Delhi following calls for protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and alleged electoral irregularities.
The Supreme Court had on October 9 asked the authorities to consider an alternative venue for peaceful protests in Delhi. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said the proposed site should have adequate space and basic facilities, including toilets, drinking water and medical assistance, while ensuring public safety and minimising disruption to daily life.
The court made the observation while hearing concerns over restrictions on public transport ahead of a protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party and student organisations.
Jantar Mantar has long served as a prominent location for demonstrations in the capital. With the latest order, protesters will be directed to the newly designated venues for future demonstrations, subject to applicable permissions and regulations.