Delhi Police Imposes Restrictions Ahead of Protest Demanding CEC’s Resignation

The Delhi Police have taken extensive measures to curb protests scheduled for Saturday at Jantar Mantar, where demonstrators are set to call for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The police have implemented several restrictions, including limits on public gatherings and significant travel restrictions throughout the city.

Starting Friday night, law enforcement officials have been actively announcing the enforcement of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, which prohibits groups of four or more from gathering, as well as processions and road blockades. These announcements, which occurred near the Parliament, serve as formal warnings against participating in the protests. The police have also stated that anyone who defies these orders may face legal repercussions.

In an effort to discourage participation, police personnel have been visiting various public spaces, including colleges, mosques, and resident welfare associations, to inform citizens about the restrictions. Furthermore, to manage the flow of people into the city, several trains arriving in Delhi between 4 AM and 2 PM on Saturday have been cancelled, and authorities have requested the closure of 57 metro stations to prevent access to protest sites.

The upcoming protest is organized by a coalition of various groups, including the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP), Leftist organizations, student bodies, and civil society activists. They are rallying against Kumar, citing alleged irregularities during the recent revision of voter rolls, which they claim compromises the integrity of the electoral process. This movement is part of a larger wave of protests that have been occurring in Delhi since October 2, involving leaders from the INDIA bloc and various student unions.

As tensions rise, the atmosphere surrounding the capital remains charged with anticipation and apprehension regarding the potential for unrest. The Delhi Police are committed to maintaining order and have urged the public to avoid joining the protests, emphasizing safety and legal compliance as paramount concerns.

Source: scroll.in