CJP calls Jantar Mantar protest site removal unacceptable

UPDATE - follow-up to 'Unacceptable': CJP on Jantar Mantar being denotified as protest site: Cockroach Janta Party co-convener Saurav Das has strongly criticized the government's move to strip Jantar Mantar of its status as a protest venue, calling the decision unacceptable and arbitrary.

Official Order

Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar signed an order on October 11, shifting authorized protest locations to three alternative areas in the national capital: Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground in east Delhi. This action followed heightened security measures across the city after groups planned to assemble at Jantar Mantar.

Party Reaction

Mr. Das questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was afraid of the historic site, pointing out that the Ministry of Home Affairs made the change without consulting citizens, groups, or stakeholders. He accused the administration of attacking the basic right to peaceful assembly and claimed the government would eventually strip India of its democratic status entirely.

Context

Public protest sites in major Indian cities are typically managed through police regulations to balance public order with civic rights, though changes to these designated zones often draw pushback from political groups. Jantar Mantar has long served as a prominent central hub for public demonstrations and political gatherings in the national capital.