Police deploy forces with bodycams at Jantar Mantar, CJP claims "govt waging war on its people"
Massive security deployment in Delhi as CJP activists protest against the Election Commission. Police use bodycams and drones to manage the crowds.
New Delhi has transformed into a high-security fortress as thousands of police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed to manage massive protests at Jantar Mantar. In a significant tactical shift, Delhi Police officers are now equipped with body-worn cameras that function even in total darkness, a move aimed at ensuring transparency during potential confrontations.
Massive Security Lockdown in the National Capital
The scale of the security operation is unprecedented. Over 35,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel are stationed across the city to prevent any escalation of unrest. To ensure total control, authorities have implemented several stringent measures:
- Metro Disruptions: 46 Metro stations have been closed to manage movement.
- Cordoned Entry: Major entry points to the capital have been blocked.
- Advanced Surveillance: The city is under the watch of multiple Facial Recognition Systems (FRS), additional CCTV cameras, rooftop spotters, and drones.
- Specialized Forces: Additional women police personnel have been brought in from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to assist with the deployment.
Bodycams: A Shield Against Allegations
The introduction of body-worn cameras marks a new chapter in Delhi's crowd management strategy. According to a police official, these devices are designed to protect both the officers and the public. "In situations of manhandling, allegations are levelled against Delhi Police. So, these body cams will prove whether we did anything to anyone or not. This will record everything," the official stated.
While police teams have been authorised to carry lathis and batons, they have been strictly instructed to avoid verbal confrontations. This directive comes following concerns that protesters might deliberately record and circulate videos to portray law enforcement in a negative light.
CJP Activists Accuse Government of "Waging War"
The Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) have called for a massive mobilisation at Jantar Mantar to demand accountability regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Despite the Delhi Police denying permission for the protest, activists remain undeterred.
CJP activist Ahbijeet Dipke, who travelled from Mumbai to join the demonstration, launched a scathing attack on the central leadership. He alleged that the heavy deployment of forces, including CRPF units from Naxal areas and troops from Jammu and Kashmir, is a sign of government fear.
"Are Narendra Modi and Amit Shah waging a war against their own country's people? I feel like the Prime Minister of this country is scared of the youth and the people of this country... Protesting is our fundamental right. They can arrest or detain me; it doesn't matter to me."
Detentions and Designated Centres
The tension reached a boiling point near Janpath in the Connaught Place area, where several protesters were detained on Saturday. To manage the influx of demonstrators, the police have established six designated centres for those detained:
- Chhatrasal Stadium
- Rajiv Gandhi Stadium
- Yamuna Sports Complex
- Surajmal Stadium
- Community Centre in Daulatpur
- Community Centre in Pandrawal
As student outfits and various political groups prepare to join the demonstration, the capital remains on high alert, with the Union Home Secretary having directed all states and Union Territories to maintain strict law and order.