Delhi Police have intensified security measures and installed barricades along Tolstoy Marg and surrounding roads in central Delhi in anticipation of a protest scheduled for October 2 at Jantar Mantar.
The demonstration, planned for Gandhi Jayanti, has been called by the All India Students’ Association (AISA), Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha, and senior advocate Prashant Bhushan. Organisers are demanding action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and the overall conduct of elections. AAP leaders and workers as well as members of the Indian Youth Congress are expected to join.
Police sources said permission for the gathering has been denied. Officials estimate that between 3,000 and 4,000 people could still attempt to assemble, prompting the deployment of additional forces, including personnel from Central Armed Police Forces, alongside Delhi Police teams.
Barricades have been placed at key entry and exit points around Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street, Ashoka Road and Tolstoy Marg. Traffic diversions are in place, with authorities advising motorists to avoid the area and use alternate routes. Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita remains applicable in the notified zone.
The security arrangements come against the backdrop of recent large-scale student protests at the same site. Police have positioned vehicles and personnel to regulate movement and prevent unauthorised gatherings.
Organisers had announced the protest for 11 am on October 2, framing it as a call to protect democratic rights. Delhi Police maintain the measures are necessary to ensure public order and safety on the national holiday.
Commuters have been urged to plan journeys carefully as traffic restrictions are expected to continue through the day.