Delhi Police De-notifies Jantar Mantar as Designated Protest Site, Names Three Alternative Venues

Under the revised arrangements, Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in East Delhi have been designated as locations for protests and demonstrations, Delhi Police said on Monday.

The decision has been issued under Delhi Police Standing Order No. L&O/48/2026. According to the official statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs had formed a committee to examine suitable alternative venues for citizens to exercise their right to organise protests and demonstrations.

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

Delhi Police added that detailed and revised standard operating procedures for organising demonstrations at the three new venues would be issued separately. The decision partially modifies the earlier Standing Order No. L&O/48/22, dated April 28, 2022.

The announcement comes amid heightened political activity in Delhi, with Congress-led INDIA bloc parties planning a march towards the Supreme Court over alleged irregularities in the Election Commission of India’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Opposition has also demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

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

Meanwhile, Delhi Traffic Police has warned commuters of possible disruptions across New Delhi and central Delhi due to the planned Opposition demonstration. Restrictions or diversions may be imposed at around 30 locations.

Potentially affected stretches include Dhaula Kuan flyover, Jhandewalan, Patel Chowk, Panchkuian, Connaught Place, Mandi House, Lodhi Road flyover, Bhikaji Cama Place and Moti Bagh flyover. Commuters may also face delays on Jantar Mantar Road, Ashoka Road, Sansad Marg and Tolstoy Marg.