Delhi on High Alert: Center Extends CAPF Deployment Until November 16
MHA extends 270 CAPF companies in Delhi to manage security for the INDIA Alliance rally and other high-profile protests.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has taken a decisive step to bolster security in the national capital by approving the extension of 270 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies in Delhi. This critical CAPF deployment in Delhi will now continue until November 16, 2026, marking the third such extension within a single month.
The decision comes after a formal request from the Delhi Police, which highlighted the need for additional manpower to maintain law and order during the festive season and to mitigate risks associated with potential security threats and unannounced protests.
A Massive Security Grid: Who is Deployed?
The security apparatus is a multi-force operation designed to cover every vulnerability in the city. The deployment is broken down as follows:
- CRPF: 125 companies (including 17 units consisting of female personnel)
- BSF: 46 companies
- ITBP: 39 companies
- SSB: 31 companies
- RAF: 20 companies
- CISF: 12 companies
The Delhi Police will serve as the primary coordinating body, managing the operational activities and strategic placement of these forces across the city.
The INDIA Alliance Rally: A Major Security Challenge
One of the primary drivers for this heightened security is the massive rally organized by the INDIA Alliance, scheduled for November 1, 2026, at the Ramlila Maidan. The organizers have been granted permission to utilize the grounds from October 25 to November 3.
Crowd Management and Surveillance
With an expected turnout of approximately 50,000 attendees, the Delhi Police have launched a comprehensive management plan:
- Manpower: Roughly 3,500 police personnel have been deployed specifically for crowd control.
- Zonal Division: The venue has been split into 14 distinct zones, each under the supervision of an officer of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) rank.
- Tech Surveillance: The area will be monitored by over 200 CCTV cameras, body-worn cameras for officers, and specialized monitoring vehicles.
Guidelines for Organizers
The authorities have mandated that organizers set up a dedicated control room for CCTV monitoring and deploy a sufficient number of volunteers. Furthermore, strict instructions have been issued to provide separate facilities for women and ensure the availability of drinking water. To maintain peace, organizers have been warned against inflammatory speeches and urged to adhere to guidelines regarding communal harmony.
Other Potential Flashpoints
Beyond the political rally, the security forces are on alert for other planned demonstrations. A significant event titled the 'People's Impeachment', targeting Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, is scheduled for October 30. This event is expected to take place at the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, adding another layer of complexity to the city's security landscape.