Delhi Police step up security around Connaught Place to maintain public order

Delhi Police and civic authorities have put comprehensive security measures and traffic diversions in place around central Delhi to maintain public order and safeguard smooth commercial activity ahead of a planned gathering by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

To prevent overcrowding and ensure public safety in high-density commercial zones, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) ordered the closure of Central Park in Connaught Place for two days, covering Friday and Saturday. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in force across the New Delhi district.

While advising the general public to avoid gathering in restricted areas, law enforcement authorities confirmed that a limited group could be facilitated to wave the national flag and perform the national anthem at a designated location. The strategy aims to balance civic expression with public safety and orderly movement in the heart of the capital.

Security deployment and traffic management

More than 6,000 Delhi Police personnel along with 220 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed across key intersections, metro access points, and arterial roads leading into Connaught Place. Delhi Traffic Police issued a public advisory warning that vehicular movement on roads surrounding the inner and outer circles of Connaught Place would face regulated diversions from 3:00 pm onwards.

Police headquarters conducted detailed review meetings chaired by Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar to coordinate law enforcement logistics, prevent disruption to local business establishments, and ensure emergency access routes remain open.

Judicial reviews and trader support

Legal challenges concerning the administrative measures were addressed by the courts on Thursday. A bench of the Delhi High Court, comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma, declined to issue restraining orders against the organisers after taking on record official assurances from the police that law and order would be strictly maintained.

Separately, the Supreme Court declined an urgent hearing on a plea challenging the temporary closure of Central Park, leaving the civic administration's security arrangements intact.

Local commercial bodies welcomed the proactive measures taken by the police to ensure stability during the busy festive period. New Delhi Traders Association president Atul Bhargava confirmed that shops, restaurants, and commercial offices in Connaught Place would remain open, emphasizing that smooth access and law enforcement support are essential for preserving customer confidence and trade.