New Delhi: Shops, offices, and commercial establishments in central Delhi's Connaught Place were advised to stay shut on Saturday as a precautionary safety measure ahead of planned protests. The advisory aimed to prevent damage to property and ensure public safety if demonstrations became unruly. Commercial establishments and restaurants received guidance from authorities and the New Delhi Traders Association to stay vigilant and cooperate to avert any untoward incidents.
Delhi Police tightened security across the New Delhi district, citing potential law and order issues. Authorities denied permission for a large gathering at Jantar Mantar, referencing Supreme Court guidelines regarding crowd thresholds and designated protest locations.
Delhi Police have registered 27 FIRs following protests organised since October 2 that led to physical confrontations, injury to police personnel, and allegations against the force. Eighteen FIRs involve sections related to public servants being obstructed in the execution of their duties, while nine FIRs invoke Section 3 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
Ahead of the scheduled demonstration that was denied permission, senior police officers held a high-level meeting at the Delhi Police headquarters to review security arrangements and maintain law and order. The meeting included Special Commissioners, area DCPs, and Special Branch officers discussing security strategies and Supreme Court instructions.
Police have been deployed across New Delhi, North East Delhi, and border areas on alert, using loudspeakers to inform the public about restrictions under Section 163 to prevent unauthorised gatherings.