Delhi Police Shuts Jantar Mantar as Protest Hub Amid Opposition March

The move coincides with a surge in political friction, as the INDIA bloc launched a massive march from Connaught Place to challenge the Election Commission. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal characterized the agitation as a battle against the systemic subversion of democratic institutions. While the opposition prepares to escalate its grievances to the Supreme Court, the government’s shift in protest venues has drawn sharp criticism from leaders like Renuka Chowdhury, who labeled the police restrictions a violation of constitutional safeguards.

Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar confirmed that a revised Standard Operating Procedure for the new sites will follow, modifying standing orders from 2022. As tensions rise, central Delhi remains under heavy security. Authorities have shuttered key metro stations—including Rajiv Chowk and Janpath—and deployed Rapid Action Force and CRPF units to contain the demonstrations. Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee joined the chorus of dissent, asserting that the march serves as a direct demand for justice and accountability.