Prohibitory orders in force in New Delhi ahead of proposed Jantar Mantar protest

Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have been imposed in the New Delhi district ahead of a proposed protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, an official said on Friday.

The order prohibits, without prior written permission, public meetings or assemblies of five or more people, processions, demonstrations, picketing and dharnas. The order also prohibits shouting slogans, making speeches, and carrying firearms, banners, placards, lathis, swords, sticks, brickbats, or similar articles.

“The order has been enforced to ensure public safety, maintain public order and facilitate smooth traffic movement, according to the notice,” a senior police officer told PTI.

Delhi Police denied permission for the proposed protest, called by the All India Students’ Association (AISA), Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and advocate Prashant Bhushan. The gathering was scheduled for 11 am on Gandhi Jayanti.

Police sources said around 3,000 to 4,000 people were expected to attend the protest. Additional Delhi Police and Central Armed Police Forces personnel have been deployed at Jantar Mantar and other sensitive locations in New Delhi, with barricades put up to regulate movement and prevent unauthorised gatherings.

The organisers have raised concerns over electoral rolls and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise and sought action against Kumar.