Delhi Police Imposes Section 163 Ahead of Jantar Mantar Protest
Delhi Police invokes Section 163 BNSS ahead of protests at Jantar Mantar against CEC Gyanesh Kumar. Metro stations face closures and restrictions.
In a major preventive move, the Delhi Police has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. This decision comes in anticipation of a massive demonstration scheduled at Jantar Mantar, directed against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.
The protest, organized by various civil society groups and left student organizations, aims to challenge alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Demonstrators have accused the Election Commission of "hijacking democracy," while the Congress party's youth wing has also planned a march toward the Election Commission office as part of a four-day agitation.
Strict Restrictions in Force
The imposition of Section 163 means that any public gathering or assembly of five or more people is strictly prohibited without prior written permission from the authorities. The order specifically bans several activities and items to maintain law and order, including:
- Processions and demonstrations
- Dharnas and picketing
- Shouting of slogans and public speeches
- Carrying of firearms, swords, or lathis
- Possession of banners, placards, sticks, or brickbats
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) New Delhi, Sachin Sharma, emphasized that preventive arrangements are already in place. Speaking to the media, he urged citizens to cooperate with the law enforcement agencies.
"Section 163 of the BNSS is in force in New Delhi, and protests, demonstrations, marches and similar activities are not permitted. People are advised not to come to the area for protests or demonstrations," stated DCP Sharma.
He further added that the police are issuing necessary notifications regarding road traffic and Metro services to ensure public awareness.
Metro Services Hit: Station Closures Announced
The security escalation has also impacted public transport. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced the closure of entry and exit gates at several key stations until further notice to manage the expected crowds and security risks.
Affected Metro Stations:
- Janpath
- Patel Chowk
- Central Secretariat
- Rajiv Chowk
- Seva Teerth
- Mandi House
- Lok Kalyan Marg
- INA
- Chawri Bazar
- Ramakrishna Ashram Marg
- New Delhi
While entry and exit points are restricted at these locations, the DMRC confirmed that interchange facilities will remain operational at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, New Delhi, and Central Secretariat stations to facilitate commuters.