Jantar Mantar Loses Designated Protest Site Status; Delhi Names Three New Venues

Delhi Police on Monday announced that Jantar Mantar has been de-notified as the designated protest site in the national capital, with Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in East Delhi identified as alternative venues for demonstrations.

The decision was taken following recommendations by a committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to examine alternative locations for citizens to organise protests and demonstrations.

In an official statement, Delhi Police said the revised arrangements had been issued under Standing Order No. L&O/48/2026.

“Based on the Committee's recommendations, Jantar Mantar as a protest venue has been de-notified,” the statement said.

The police added that detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) governing protests at the three newly designated venues would be issued separately. The order partially modifies the earlier Standing Order No. L&O/48/22, dated April 28, 2022.

The announcement comes amid heightened political activity in the capital over the Election Commission of India's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

The Congress-led INDIA bloc had planned a march towards the Supreme Court to protest against the Election Commission and demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the SIR exercise.

Security arrangements around Jantar Mantar remained in place on Sunday, with barricades restricting access to roads leading to the area and police personnel deployed at key intersections to regulate movement and prevent unauthorised gatherings.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory warning commuters of possible disruptions across New Delhi and central Delhi on Monday in view of the planned Opposition demonstration.

According to the advisory, traffic restrictions or diversions could be imposed at around 30 locations to manage congestion and maintain security.

Among the roads and intersections likely to be affected are the Dhaula Kuan flyover, Jhandewalan, Patel Chowk, Panchkuian, Connaught Place, Mandi House, Lodhi Road flyover, Bhikaji Cama Place and Moti Bagh flyover.

Commuters were also warned of possible delays along Jantar Mantar Road, Ashoka Road, Sansad Marg and Tolstoy Marg.