New Delhi, 26 July (H.S.): Delhi Metro services returned to normal on Sunday after authorities reopened all stations across the network, restoring both entry and exit for passengers following temporary security-related restrictions imposed during nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) confirmed that all Metro stations are now fully operational, marking the end of phased restrictions that had affected several key stations in central Delhi over the past two days.

The restrictions were introduced amid heightened security arrangements as student groups and civil society organisations staged protests near Jantar Mantar and other parts of the national capital, demanding strict action over alleged examination irregularities and accountability in the NEET paper leak case.

Metro services began returning to normal on Saturday, when entry gates at Janpath Metro station were reopened. This was followed by the restoration of services at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat stations as security agencies gradually eased restrictions.

Earlier, authorities had temporarily suspended entry and exit at 18 Metro stations across Delhi as a precautionary measure to manage crowd movement and maintain law and order. The affected stations included Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhambha Road, Supreme Court, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, Shivaji Stadium, Jhandewalan and New Delhi, among others.

The reopening comes after security agencies reviewed the situation following several days of demonstrations linked to the alleged examination scandal. With restrictions lifted, Metro operations have resumed seamlessly across the National Capital Region, offering relief to lakhs of daily commuters who rely on the network for travel.

The restoration of normal Metro services also coincides with significant political developments surrounding the examination controversy, including the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan amid mounting public pressure.

Delhi Metro, one of the country's busiest urban transit systems, has advised passengers to continue following official travel advisories and security instructions while using Metro services. Authorities have said they will continue monitoring the situation and take appropriate measures if required.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar