New Delhi, 16 October (H.S.): Tensions have risen in the national capital ahead of the ‘Unfurl the Tricolour’ march called by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) for Friday. Delhi Police have stepped up security around Connaught Place, while the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has announced the closure of Central Park in Connaught Place for two days. Police have urged people to avoid the area, citing prohibitory orders, and the traffic police have issued an advisory warning of possible disruptions on several major roads.

Meanwhile, CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke has alleged that undercover police personnel are following him. Officials, however, have said the measures are intended to maintain public order and prevent any untoward incident. Delhi Police have clarified that Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) is in force in Connaught Place and adjoining areas to maintain peace, ensure public safety and protect property.

Addressing a press conference on Friday evening, Deputy Commissioner of Police Neha Yadav said the NDMC had informed Delhi Police in a letter that Central Park would remain closed on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons. The civic body has requested the police to make stringent security arrangements at the sensitive public park and ensure that no unauthorised person enters the premises.

Traders have expressed concern that disruptive elements and unlawful gatherings are adversely affecting their businesses. The Delhi High Court has also taken note of concerns over possible disruptions to commercial activities in a case related to the issue. In response, Delhi Police assured the court that appropriate measures would be taken, keeping the petitioner’s concerns in view.

In a press release, the CJP described the march as an initiative to show support for its leaders, Ashutosh Ranka and Saurabh Das. Both were remanded to five days of judicial custody on Wednesday after raising slogans at Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Their arrests came a day after the Union Home Ministry withdrew Jantar Mantar’s status as an authorised protest site.

The CJP’s campaign against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar began in Mumbai on October 2. On October 10, the party announced that it would launch its protest in Delhi. Abhijeet Dipke, Saurabh Das and Ashutosh Ranka were detained upon arriving at Delhi airport.

In a statement, Delhi Police said they could consider allowing a group of only 11 CJP members to participate in the demonstration while carrying the national flag and singing the national anthem. With prohibitory orders in force in Connaught Place and surrounding areas, any violation would invite legal action, the police warned.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar