Delhi Denotifies Jantar Mantar As Protest Site; 3 Venues Named Amid Opposition Outcry

Delhi Police has formally denotified Jantar Mantar as an authorised site for protests and demonstrations following an order issued on October 11 by Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar. In its place, authorities have designated three alternative sites across the national capital: Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground in East Delhi. The opposition and public groups have criticised the decision, describing it as an attempt to push protests out of sight. A ground analysis reveals major hurdles across the new venues. Ramlila Maidan, while located closest to central Delhi, incurs steep booking and security fees totalling over 1.21 lakh rupees per day, requires complex clearances, and has practically no booking slots available until late December due to festive events. Alternative sites like Burari Ground and CBD Ground are located far from the city centre, situated 13 to 20 kilometres away, creating severe logistical and transit challenges for demonstration organisers.