Delhi Police detain anti-SIR protesters marching toward Election Commission

Delhi Police and security forces detained several demonstrators in central Delhi on Friday after an unsanctioned march against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls attempted to advance towards the Election Commission of India headquarters. Authorities enforced Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), prohibiting unauthorized mass gatherings to preserve civic order and safeguard key national institutions.

The demonstration, called by the Delhi Coordination Committee of People Against SIR, assembled near Gole Dak Khana at the intersection of Kalibari Marg and Bhai Vir Singh Marg. Participants carrying flags and banners attempted to move along Ashoka Road towards the commission’s headquarters before law enforcement personnel intercepted the procession.

Security deployment and public safety

Delhi Police and Rapid Action Force personnel established cordons around Bangla Sahib Gurudwara and surrounding intersections to prevent unlawful movement toward high-security government establishments. Police issued verbal warnings instructing the crowd to clear the carriageway. When demonstrators refused to disperse and sat on the road, security personnel moved in, detaining several individuals and transporting them away in police vans to restore traffic and public access.

To ensure sustained public safety across the capital, the Union Home Ministry extended the deployment of 273 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies in Delhi until 31 October. The strategic deployment aims to prevent flash protests and protect key institutional infrastructure.

Traffic regulation and civic management

Delhi Traffic Police actively managed traffic flows between 1 pm and 5 pm, implementing targeted diversions around Connaught Place, Parliament Street, Jantar Mantar, and Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. Advisory notices ensured commuters were alerted to alternative routes, minimizing inconvenience across central Delhi.

The march included members of various student and political groups, including the Krantikari Yuva Sangathan, the Students' Federation of India, and senior CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat. Law enforcement swiftly normalized conditions in the area following the detentions.