Delhi Metro Closes 45 Stations In View of CJP Protest
Entry and exit gates at 45 stations remain shut amid heightened security for the Jantar Mantar demonstration demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 10th Oct: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has closed entry and exit at 45 metro stations across the national capital amid heightened security for the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar, which seeks the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.
The restrictions follow a request from Delhi Police, which cited the possibility of “unruly mob movement towards sensitive locations”. The DMRC had initially announced closures at 57 stations but later revised the list to 45.
According to the DMRC, entry and exit at the affected stations were scheduled to remain closed from 9 pm on October 9 until 6 pm on October 10. Security agencies will review the situation and issue further updates if required.
The DMRC said interchange facilities would remain available at the affected stations, except New Delhi Metro station.
Namo Bharat Stations Also Shut
Alongside the Delhi Metro restrictions, the Namo Bharat stations at Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar were scheduled to remain closed until 10 pm on October 10.
The closures affect several key areas, including Central Delhi, Hauz Khas, Kashmere Gate, Maujpur-Babarpur and Rithala. Commuters have been advised to account for the restrictions while planning their journeys.
Why Is the CJP Protesting?
The CJP has called the demonstration to demand Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation, alleging irregularities involving changes to Form 6 and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Delhi Police Joint Commissioner Nupur Prasad said the organisers had sought permission for the October 10 protest on October 7, just three days before the planned gathering. According to the officer, the prescribed notice period is at least 10 days. Police have also cited concerns over alleged violations of directions issued during an earlier demonstration.
Heavy Security Deployment Across Delhi
More than 120 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) were expected to support Delhi Police in managing security. Personnel were deployed at strategic locations, while CCTV cameras were installed to monitor activity.
The New Delhi district was divided into 20 zones for closer supervision by senior officers. Joint commissioners, deputy commissioners, additional deputy commissioners and special commissioners were assigned responsibilities across different units.
The extensive security arrangements come amid wider restrictions affecting transport and public movement in the capital. Authorities have said the measures are intended to prevent disorder and protect sensitive locations during the planned demonstration.
