Delhi Police have detained more than 500 people arriving from various states ahead of a proposed protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar on Saturday. Security has been tightened across the national capital to prevent unauthorised gatherings and maintain law and order.
The demonstration has been called to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities associated with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
According to reports, more than 35,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed across the city. The security arrangements include over 120 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), with personnel stationed at key intersections, transport hubs and other sensitive locations.
The New Delhi district has been divided into 20 security zones, with senior police officers assigned to supervise the arrangements. Additional women police personnel have also been brought in from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, while mock drills have been conducted to assess preparedness for possible disturbances.
According to ANI, police teams have been instructed to take action against individuals attempting to organise unauthorised demonstrations. CAPF personnel assigned to protest-related duties have reportedly been directed not to carry weapons, while Delhi Police personnel are authorised to carry lathis and batons.
Officers have also been advised to avoid verbal confrontations with protesters amid concerns over videos of police interactions circulating on social media.
High-Tech Surveillance Measures Introduced
Delhi Police have expanded surveillance ahead of the planned demonstration, deploying body cameras, facial recognition systems, CCTV cameras and drones. Rooftop surveillance teams have also been positioned across central Delhi.
Police personnel assigned to protest duty are wearing body cameras capable of recording in low-light conditions. Officials said the footage could help establish the sequence of events and address allegations of misconduct or physical altercations.
“These body cams are to protect us and others,” an official said, explaining that the recordings would provide evidence of police interactions with protesters.
Authorities are also monitoring social media activity linked to the planned demonstration. More than 200 content creators are reportedly under scrutiny as police examine online posts and messages potentially connected to mobilisation efforts.
Protest Over Electoral Roll Revision
The proposed CJP demonstration comes amid growing opposition to the SIR exercise, with critics raising concerns about the possible exclusion of eligible voters during the revision of electoral rolls.
Protesters are demanding accountability from the Election Commission and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the allegations.
The extensive security deployment and detentions reflect the authorities’ preparations for the demonstration. Further developments are expected as the protest situation unfolds in the national capital.