10 Things to Know About Today’s Protest at Connaught Place

The Protest Is Called ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ The CJP called for a gathering at Central Park in Connaught Place, asking participants to carry the Indian national flag as part of the demonstration.

CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Was Detained Police detained CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke on Friday before the planned gathering. The incident was captured in a live video shared by the group. Police had reportedly warned him earlier against proceeding with the protest.

The Protest Is Linked to Electoral Accountability The demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the revision of electoral rolls. The Election Commission has denied political bias and said voters whose names were wrongly removed can seek re-enrolment.

Support for Detained CJP Leaders Is Another Key Issue The gathering was also called in support of CJP leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, who were detained and sent to jail for five days after a demonstration at a site where protests were prohibited.

Central Park Is Closed for Two Days The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) announced that Central Park in Connaught Place would remain closed to the public on October 16 and 17, citing administrative reasons linked to the planned gathering.

Around 1,000 People Gathered Near Connaught Place According to sources, around 1,000 people gathered near Connaught Place for the Tiranga March. Heavy police deployment prevented access to Central Park as demonstrators raised concerns about electoral accountability and other public issues.

Security Has Been Tightened Across Central Delhi Police increased security and surveillance around Connaught Place ahead of the gathering. Authorities also warned against unauthorised assemblies under prohibitory orders in force in the area.

Traffic Disruptions Were Expected From 3 PM Delhi Traffic Police warned that traffic movement around Connaught Place and nearby central Delhi roads could be affected from 3 PM. Roads identified as potentially affected included Janpath, Barakhamba Road, Sansad Marg and Baba Kharak Singh Marg.

Traders Have Raised Concerns Over Business Losses Local traders have urged political groups to hold demonstrations at designated protest sites rather than in Connaught Place, citing disruptions to shops and restaurants. The issue has also reached the courts, where traders have raised concerns about financial losses.

The Protest Has Drawn Wider Political and Civic Attention The CJP's campaign has received support from opposition groups and student organisations, including the Aam Aadmi Party. The gathering has also highlighted differing concerns over electoral transparency, the right to protest, public order and the impact of demonstrations on local businesses.