Connaught Place Central Park Closed: Section 163 Imposed Amid Protest Security Measures

The NDMC has closed Connaught Place's Central Park for October 16 and 17 due to the 'Lehra Do Tiranga' protest demanding the removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar. Delhi Police has imposed Section 163 of BNSS and issued a major traffic advisory for New Delhi.

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has officially announced the closure of Central Park in Connaught Place for October 16 and October 17. This significant decision comes in response to a proposed protest titled 'Lehra Do Tiranga,' which is scheduled for Friday. The demonstrators are demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, while to maintain law and order, the authorities have implemented strict security arrangements across Central Delhi, ensuring that the iconic public space remains inaccessible to the general public during this period.

Imposition of Section 163 and Police Directives

In addition to the closure of Central Park, the Delhi Police has invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to prevent unauthorized gatherings. The police have issued a public appeal, urging citizens to stay away from the protest organized by the CJP in Connaught Place. Officials have emphasized that while the right to protest is recognized, it must not compromise public order. The police stated that they would ensure the national flag is displayed and carried, and the national anthem is sung, with the utmost respect, dignity, and decorum. However, the police have clarified that they may facilitate a group of 11 people to carry the national flag and sing the national anthem at a designated location, provided it follows the prescribed manner.

Delhi High Court Refuses to Stay Protest

The administrative orders follow a legal development in the Delhi High Court. On October 16, the court declined to pass an order staying the proposed demonstration at Central Park. A bench consisting of Acting Chief Justice Nitin Vasudev Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma heard a petition filed by Anil Kumar Gupta, a local shopkeeper from Connaught Place. Gupta had sought a stay on the protest, citing potential disruptions to business and public movement. Despite the petition, the court didn't stop the event, leading the NDMC and police to take preventive security measures on the ground.

Delhi Traffic Advisory

Security Deployment and Protest Sites

Security sources have indicated that a heavy police presence is expected around Connaught Place and Jantar Mantar. Several companies of paramilitary forces have already been deployed in the national capital to assist the local police. Officers will be stationed at strategic points to monitor the situation. A police source mentioned that barricades would be erected to regulate the movement of both protesters and commuters, aiming to prevent any untoward incidents. A senior police officer reiterated that Connaught Place isn't a designated site for protests. The officer noted that Jantar Mantar has been denotified as a protest site. Protesters are encouraged to seek necessary permissions to hold their demonstrations at authorized locations such as Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground, or the CBD Ground.

Comprehensive Traffic Advisory for Commuters

The Delhi Traffic Police has issued a detailed advisory in anticipation of the protest, while traffic movement is expected to be Importantly affected on the roads surrounding Connaught Place starting from 3 PM on October 16. Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra time for travel. The police have also encouraged the use of public transport wherever possible to minimize congestion. According to the statement, traffic diversions may be implemented based on the evolving situation on the ground. Motorists are strictly advised to follow the instructions provided by traffic personnel on duty.

List of Affected Roads

The following roads in New Delhi are likely to experience traffic disruptions on Friday, October 16: Sansad Marg, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Shahid Bhagat Singh Marg, Panchkuian Road, Basant Lane, Chelmsford Road, Minto Road, Barakhamba Road, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Janpath, the route around Rail Bhawan, Rafi Marg, C-Hexagon, Patel Chowk, Mandi House, Windsor Place, Gole Dak Khana, Ashok Road (from GPO to C-Hexagon), Tilak Marg, Tolstoy Marg, and Sikandra Road. Residents and visitors are urged to avoid these stretches during the peak hours of the protest to avoid being caught in traffic snarls.