Jantar Mantar Dropped: Protests to Shift to Three New Locations, A Major Decision by Delhi Police

New Delhi: Delhi Police has taken a significant step regarding the arrangements for protests and demonstrations in the capital. Jantar Mantar, long recognised as a primary venue for protests, has been removed from the list of designated protest sites. Instead, three new locations in the capital have been earmarked for such gatherings. This information was conveyed through a standing order issued by Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar.

According to the order, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had constituted a committee to identify alternative sites, keeping in mind the citizens' right to protest and hold assemblies. This change has been implemented based on the committee's recommendations. The objective is to designate suitable locations for protests and ensure better management of public order in the capital.

From Ramlila Maidan to Burari: Three New Venues

Under the new order, Ramlila Maidan, Burari Maidan, and the CBD Ground in East Delhi have been designated as the new venues for holding protests. Detailed and revised Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for organising protests at these three locations will be issued separately.

Delhi Police issued this order as a partial amendment to a previous standing order dated April 28, 2022. The new directive also instructs that police officials and relevant units be informed of the change and that the order be made available on the official internal network.

Protest Venues Set to Change

Jantar Mantar has long served as a major hub for protests by political parties, social organisations, and various public groups. Consequently, the decision to remove it from the list of designated protest sites and designate three new locations is likely to impact the planning of future protests in the capital.

However, the detailed procedures and conditions for holding protests at these new venues are yet to be issued. Therefore, the organisers will have to complete the necessary formalities in accordance with the upcoming instructions.