Security arrangements in Delhi have been Importantly tightened in view of a proposed protest scheduled for Saturday, October 10. The national capital is witnessing a massive security build-up, with authorities announcing the closure of entry and exit points at 45 Delhi Metro stations. In addition to the metro restrictions, the Indian Railways has cancelled 75 trains connected to New Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin, and Tilak Bridge stations. To maintain law and order, internet services will also remain temporarily suspended in certain sensitive areas of the city. Other closures include two stations of the Namo Bharat train, liquor shops, and the Bhagirath Palace market.
Implementation of Section 163 BNSS
In response to the planned demonstrations, the administration has implemented Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in Central Delhi. Section 163 of the BNSS effectively replaces the erstwhile Section 144 of the CrPC. Under this provision, officials are empowered to impose temporary restrictions to prevent violence, riots, unlawful assemblies, and other situations that could disturb public order. Also, internet services around the Janpath-Kartavya Path crossing in New Delhi will be temporarily suspended within a radius of approximately 4 kilometers until 10 PM on Saturday.
Massive Disruption in Railway and Metro Services
Indian Railways has announced a 10-hour suspension of train services at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway stations on Saturday, from 4 AM to 2 PM, anticipating heavy traffic congestion. During this period, several incoming mail and express trains have been cancelled from their originating stations. Travelers planning to move within Delhi or travel by train on Saturday are advised to check the affected routes. A total of 75 trains associated with New Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin, and Tilak Bridge stations have been cancelled due to the protest and related traffic advisories. These cancellations will affect trains scheduled to run on October 9, October 10, and October 11. On top of that, a sub-heading in the reports mentions 71 trains being cancelled, highlighting the large-scale impact on the rail network.
Security Deployment and Zonal Division
The security apparatus has been fortified at the borders connecting Noida to Delhi, while personnel from the Delhi Police and the Border Security Force (BSF) have been stationed at critical locations. At the Chilla border, a combined force of Noida Police, Delhi Police, and BSF jawans is maintaining a strict vigil. The New Delhi district has been divided into 20 zones to manage the situation effectively. The Ministry of Home Affairs has provided additional companies of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) to the Delhi Police to strengthen security. Between October 8, 2026, and October 12, 2026, approximately 23,000 security personnel are expected to be deployed across Delhi.
Reasons Behind the Protest
" The protesters are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive. Despite the restrictions, CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke has stated that they will proceed with the march to Jantar Mantar. To monitor the situation, authorities are using multi-layered barricading, CCTV surveillance, and cameras equipped with Facial Recognition System (FRS). Security agencies are also keeping a close watch on railway stations, bus terminals, and borders to prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the protest under the guise of demonstrators.