Delhi has significantly intensified its security arrangements ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ march, with more than 6,000 Delhi Police personnel, 220 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and an expanded CCTV surveillance network deployed across key areas of the national capital.
The proposed demonstration is scheduled for 5 pm on Friday at Central Park in Connaught Place. Authorities are preparing for a potentially large gathering, with security measures covering Connaught Place, Rajiv Chowk, Jantar Mantar, Palika Bazaar, nearby metro stations and other sensitive locations across Lutyens’ Delhi.
Police have installed barricades at several important points, including Connaught Place, Patel Chowk, ITO and Sansad Marg. Officials said the objective is to secure entry and exit routes, manage crowds and prevent disturbances while minimising unnecessary disruption to commuters and businesses.
A senior police officer said approximately 5,000 additional personnel had been kept in reserve from other districts to strengthen the deployment if required. The arrangements also include 220 CAPF companies assigned to New Delhi and other important locations, including adjoining districts and border areas.
According to the reported deployment plan, 30 CAPF companies will be deployed during each shift, with three shifts scheduled throughout the day. Authorities may increase the deployment to 60 companies in a single shift if the crowd grows significantly or the demonstration continues into the night.
Surveillance has also been strengthened around Central Park and Rajiv Chowk. More than 10 additional CCTV cameras have reportedly been installed to monitor the gathering and preserve footage in the event of violations or other incidents. Police officials said the new cameras were necessary because the area previously had limited surveillance coverage despite expectations of a large turnout.
Meanwhile, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has announced that Central Park will remain closed to the public on Friday and Saturday for administrative reasons. The closure forms part of the broader arrangements to manage access to the area and prevent unauthorised entry during the period of heightened security.
Although the CJP’s proposed march has not received official permission, Delhi Police has indicated that it could consider facilitating a small group of protesters to wave the national flag and sing the national anthem at an alternative, suitable location.
The demonstration comes amid tensions between the CJP and Delhi Police over protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The march was announced after CJP leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were reportedly sent to judicial custody following their entry into Jantar Mantar on October 13.
Student organisations, activists and supporters of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are also expected to participate in the proposed gathering, raising concerns among authorities about the possibility of crowds extending into nearby commercial areas.
Delhi Police spokesperson Neha Yadav said permission had not been granted for the march and that prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were already in force in Connaught Place and surrounding areas. The restrictions prohibit gatherings covered by the orders, and violations may lead to legal action.
Police have also received written requests from market and trade associations seeking protection for businesses in and around Connaught Place. Traders have reportedly expressed concerns that large gatherings and associated disruptions could affect commercial activity and the daily operations of their establishments.
Authorities have appealed to residents, commuters and visitors to avoid unauthorised gatherings and follow police instructions. Officers say the security arrangements are designed to maintain public order, protect businesses and manage the movement of people through one of Delhi’s busiest commercial districts.
The situation reflects the difficult balance between maintaining public safety and allowing citizens to express their views through peaceful demonstrations. For the protesters, the planned march represents an opportunity to make their voices heard. For shopkeepers, workers and commuters, the immediate concern is whether daily life can continue without major disruption.
As the situation develops, the handling of the proposed march will remain important not only for those directly involved but also for the wider public. Clear communication, proportionate security measures and respect for lawful procedures can help reduce tensions while ensuring that public safety and democratic freedoms remain central to the response.
