CEC row: Section 163 remains in force in New Delhi, no permission for protest today

October 3, 2026

New Delhi: The Delhi Police on Saturday said prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 remain in force across the New Delhi district and that no permission has been granted for any kind of protest on Saturday.

The restrictions were imposed a day earlier ahead of a proposed protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Delhi Police reiterate protest restrictions

In a post on X, DCP New Delhi said Section 163 of BNSS, 2023 was in force in the New Delhi district to ensure public safety, public order and smooth traffic movement.

“Unauthorised gatherings, public speeches, shouting of slogans, processions, demonstrations, dharnas and other specified activities are prohibited,” the police said.

The police added that no permission had been granted for any protest scheduled for October 3 and that no prior information regarding any such protest had been received by the New Delhi district police.

Officials urged citizens to comply with the order and cooperate with the Delhi Police, warning that violations would invite legal action.

Three FIRs registered over earlier protests

Meanwhile, Delhi Police have registered at least three FIRs in connection with protests held in the national capital demanding the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, officials said.

Two FIRs were registered at Parliament Street Police Station, while another case was registered at Connaught Place Police Station.

According to officials, the cases have been registered under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with disobedience of an order duly promulgated by a public servant.

No individual or organisation has been specifically named as an accused in any of the FIRs, officials said. However, details of organisers and organisations that had proposed or participated in the demonstrations have been included in the cases.

Over 1,000 protesters detained on Friday

On Friday, police detained more than 1,000 protesters as they attempted to cross barricades and move towards the designated protest site, according to officials.

The proposed demonstrations were linked to demands for the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and allegations concerning the SIR of electoral rolls.

The restrictions remain in force across the New Delhi district as authorities continue to regulate gatherings and demonstrations in the area.