Delhi Police banned large gatherings and partially shut down mobile internet services in central Delhi on Monday to prevent unrest [1, 2].
The restrictions come as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) prepares a march toward Parliament. The move signals a heightened state of alert by security forces in the capital, reflecting concerns over the potential for volatility during the monsoon session of Parliament.
Security forces have deployed a heavy presence around Jantar Mantar, a traditional site for public protests in the city [1, 2]. The police said security concerns were the primary reason for the ban on large assemblies [1, 2]. These measures aim to block the CJP's planned movement toward the legislative hub.
Abhijit Dipke, the founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, organized the demonstration to bring attention to the group's grievances [1, 2]. The disruption of mobile data services is a tactic often used by local authorities to hinder the coordination of protesters and the real-time spread of information via social media.
While the police focused on the CJP march, other activists have also faced challenges in the capital. Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent activist, has been hospitalized [2]. The coincidence of these events has increased the tension in central Delhi as the government maintains a strict perimeter around government buildings.
Officials have not specified the duration of the internet shutdown or the gathering ban [1, 2]. The heavy police deployment remains in effect to ensure that no unauthorized groups reach the Parliament complex during this period of heightened security.
“Delhi Police banned large gatherings and partially shut down mobile internet services in central Delhi”
The use of internet shutdowns and gathering bans in central Delhi reflects a preemptive security strategy to maintain order during the parliamentary monsoon session. By targeting the coordination capabilities of the Cockroach Janta Party and restricting physical access to Jantar Mantar, authorities are prioritizing the stability of the government district over the right to public assembly.
