Delhi Turns Into Fortress Ahead of CJP Jantar Mantar 2.0 Protest
Delhi turns into a high-security fortress with 35,000 personnel deployed ahead of the CJP protest at Jantar Mantar.
The national capital has been transformed into a high-security zone as authorities ramped up surveillance and personnel deployment ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest scheduled for Saturday. Aiming to demand the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, the demonstration has prompted a massive security response across Delhi and its surrounding borders.
Massive Deployment and Border Checkpoints
Under direct instructions from the Union Home Ministry, more than 35,000 personnel from the Delhi Police and various paramilitary forces have been mobilised. To maintain order, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) conducted flag marches through key areas such as the Mandi House Circle, while Delhi Police carried out similar marches across Connaught Place.
Security has been particularly intense at the city's entry points:
- Singhu Border: Intensive security checks were implemented at the Delhi-Haryana border.
- Ghaziabad: Police conducted rigorous vehicle inspections at the Tulsi Niketan border in Uttar Pradesh, leading to significant traffic congestion.
- IGI Airport: Security has been heightened at Terminal 3 in anticipation of the arrival of CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke.
Strict Measures and Detention Facilities
Citing concerns over potential violence based on previous incidents, the Delhi Police have denied permission for the gathering. On-ground teams have been instructed to detain anyone attempting to demonstrate. To manage those detained, authorities have designated six specific locations as temporary holding facilities, including:
- Chhatrasal Stadium
- Rajiv Gandhi Stadium
- Various community centres
In a strategic move to manage the crowd, Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel have been directed not to carry firearms, whereas police teams have been equipped with batons. Officers have also been instructed to avoid verbal confrontations with protesters.
Body Cameras and Metro Disruptions
In a bid to ensure transparency and protect officers from false allegations, Delhi Police personnel have been equipped with uniform-mounted body cameras. These devices are capable of recording in low-light conditions to provide an accurate account of any physical altercations.
"These body cams are to protect us and others. In situations of manhandling, allegations are levelled against Delhi Police. So, these body cams will prove whether we did anything to anyone or not," an on-duty official stated.
Commuters are also feeling the impact of the heightened security. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has closed several entry and exit gates at select stations in central Delhi. Passengers are being advised to seek alternative routes as the city remains on high alert to maintain law and order.