Delhi Police Deploy 6,000 Personnel to Block 'Lehra Do Tiranga' March in Connaught Place

Demonstrators allege irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. These irregularities prompted the October 16, 2026, march. Organizers stated the protest responded to the imprisonment of their leadership.

1. Protesters demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They claim this step is necessary to address alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The protest movement has continued for seven days across the capital.

2. The Cockroach Janta Party and Left student groups organized the march. The organizers maintain the event was a legitimate exercise of democratic rights.

3. Political figures used the march to show solidarity with detained activists. Communist Party of India(Marxist) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas attended the protest. His presence signaled political support for the movement's goals.

4. Organizers held the event to support CJP leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das. Authorities placed the two men in judicial custody on October 14, 2026.

1. The Delhi Police justified the crackdown by citing traffic disruption and public safety concerns. Authorities argued that the planned gathering at Central Park would inconvenience traders and commuters.

2. Authorities invoked Section 163 of the criminal code to prohibit public gatherings in the Connaught Place area on October 16, 2026. Officials cited the measure to justify deploying over 6,000 police and Central Armed Police Forces personnel.

3. The New Delhi Municipal Corporation closed Central Park for two days to prevent the march. New Delhi Municipal Corporation representatives stated the closure aimed to maintain order and prevent unauthorized use of public space.