Delhi is on high alert on Friday, October 16, 2026, ahead of the proposed ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ march called by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Central Park in Connaught Place. The Delhi Police has stepped up security in central Delhi, while commuters have been warned of possible traffic disruptions on major roads from 3 pm onwards.
The proposed gathering comes amid a standoff between the party and the authorities over the demonstration. CJP has demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls. The latest protest call has also been linked to the arrests of party leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka. <Cite refs={[“turn322598news8″,”turn322598search2”]}/>
6,000 Police Personnel Deployed in Central Delhi
According to reports, around 6,000 Delhi Police personnel are being deployed as part of the security arrangements, with support from 200 companies of Central Armed Police Forces working in shifts.
Security measures are focused on Connaught Place, Rajiv Chowk, nearby markets, metro stations and other sensitive locations. Authorities are also preparing for possible barricading, movement restrictions and traffic diversions depending on the situation.
Police have urged the public to avoid gathering at Central Park and to follow official instructions. <Cite refs={[“turn322598search2″,”turn322598search0”]}/>
Traffic Alert: 21 Roads May Be Affected After 3 PM
The Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory warning that traffic movement on roads in and around Connaught Place could be affected from 3 pm on October 16. Diversions may be introduced depending on crowd movement and security requirements.
The advisory names the following roads and locations as potentially affected:
- Sansad Marg
- Baba Kharak Singh Marg
- Shaheed Bhagat Singh Marg
- Panchkuian Road
- Basant Lane
- Chelmsford Road
- Minto Road
- Barakhamba Road
- Kasturba Gandhi Marg
- Janpath
- Rail Bhawan
- Rafi Marg
- C-Hexagon
- Mandi House
- Patel Chowk
- Windsor Place
- Gol Dak Khana
- Ashok Road, from GPO to C-Hexagon
- Tilak Marg
- Tolstoy Marg
Commuters travelling through central Delhi should allow extra time, follow directions from traffic personnel and check the official Delhi Traffic Police website for updates. <Cite refs={[“turn322598search2″,”turn322598search3”]}/>
Section 163 Restrictions Remain in Force
Delhi Police has said that prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) are in force in Connaught Place and adjoining areas.
The restrictions are intended to maintain public order and protect people and public and private property. Police have warned that violations may lead to legal action.
Authorities have also indicated that a small group may be permitted to hoist the National Flag and sing the National Anthem at a suitable location, subject to arrangements and applicable restrictions. <Cite refs={[“turn322598search6″,”turn322598news10”]}/>
Central Park Closed on October 16 and 17
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has announced that Central Park in Connaught Place will remain closed to the general public on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons.
The closure coincides with CJP’s proposed gathering at the park, where the party has called on supporters to assemble with the National Flag at 5 pm. Reports indicate that permission for the proposed rally at Central Park had not been granted at the time of publication. <Cite refs={[“turn322598search1″,”turn322598search5”]}/>
Commuters and Visitors Advised to Plan Ahead
With heightened security, possible diversions and the closure of Central Park, people visiting Connaught Place, Palika Bazaar and nearby areas should check the latest official advisories before travelling.
Police have urged residents and visitors to cooperate with security personnel and avoid restricted areas. Traffic arrangements may change throughout the day depending on the situation.