New Delhi: A major confrontation unfolded in central Delhi after security personnel blocked demonstrators attempting to march toward Jantar Mantar. The unrest began when a group of approximately fifty to sixty protesters gathered near the old parliament area and the Press Trust of India building. During the ensuing standoff, stones were allegedly hurled at Delhi Police personnel, resulting in injuries to at least two officers.
In response to the unauthorized demonstration and a broader protest call by the Kakroo Janata Party, authorities enforced prohibitory orders under Section 163 across the district. A massive security clampdown was launched, featuring multi-layered barricades and flag marches across Connaught Place, Parliament Street, Imtiaz Khan Marg, Minto Road, and Patel Chowk. Delhi Police were reinforced by the Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force, and the Rapid Action Force in anti-riot gear, while drones monitored movement from above.
Authorities detained dozens of demonstrators throughout the day, including prominent figures from the Kakroo Janata Party such as founder Abhijit Dipke, Ashutosh Ranka, and Saurav Das. Members of left-wing organizations, including students from Jawaharlal Nehru University, the Students' Federation of India, and the All India Students' Federation, were also taken into custody. Some activists staged sit-in dharnas, formed human chains, and attempted to breach barricades near Sansad Marg and the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters, where they demanded the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Minor scuffles broke out as security forces moved to disperse crowds and load detainees into buses, though officers reportedly avoided heavier measures like lathi charges or water cannons. Some demonstrators temporarily retreated into spaces like the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, where security personnel exercised restraint. To mitigate further disruptions, commercial establishments in Connaught Place remained shuttered following an advisory from the New Delhi Traders Association, while police diverted traffic and questioned motorists to secure the area.