Delhi Police Detain Over 100 Ahead of CJP Rally at Jantar Mantar

Delhi police have detained at least 100 individuals with criminal records across 15 districts as a preventive step before a planned protest by the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar. The police said the detainees were suspected of intending to join the rally that calls for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Earlier on Friday, Joint Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Nupur Prasad denied permission for the protest, noting that the request arrived at the last minute and violated the rule that notices must be filed at least ten days in advance. The CJP argued that it had only informed the police, not sought permission, and pointed out that Jantar Mantar is a designated protest venue. Organiser Mr. Das submitted a letter to the Parliament Street police station and received an acknowledgment, according to the party. To manage the expected crowd, authorities announced traffic diversions at 30 key points starting 6 a.m. on Saturday. Internet access was partially restricted in parts of the city, several markets were ordered to shut, and dozens of trains heading to Delhi were cancelled. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation also closed entry and exit gates at 57 stations from 9 p.m. on October 9 through the whole of October 10, citing security concerns.

Context

Jantar Mantar has long been used for large public demonstrations, but police require advance notice to coordinate security and traffic. Preventive detention of people with prior criminal records is a tool the Delhi police employ when they anticipate law‑and‑order risks.