New Delhi, 12 October (H.S.): The Delhi Police has removed Jantar Mantar from the list of designated venues for sit-ins and protests, naming Ramlila Maidan, Burari Maidan and CBD Ground in East Delhi as three alternative sites for demonstrations. Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued a standing order to this effect on October 11.

According to the order, the decision was taken on the basis of recommendations made by a committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. The committee was tasked with identifying alternative venues for protests while taking into account citizens’ right to demonstrate.

The Delhi Police said that a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for organising sit-ins and demonstrations at Ramlila Maidan, Burari Maidan and CBD Ground would be issued separately. The guidelines will specify the procedures for obtaining permission, the conditions governing demonstrations and other necessary arrangements.

The order partially amends a standing order issued on April 28, 2022. Copies of the latest order have been circulated among senior Delhi Police officers and all district police units.

Jantar Mantar has long served as a prominent venue for protests organised by political parties, social organisations and various other groups. Previously, organisers were required to obtain police permission in advance and comply with the prescribed conditions to hold demonstrations at the site.

Following the latest order, protesters will have to seek permission to hold demonstrations at the newly designated venues and comply with the rules applicable at each location.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar