New Delhi: Security arrangements were tightened across central Delhi on Monday as Opposition parties prepared to march from Connaught Place towards the Supreme Court to protest alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demand action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Congress workers gathered at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters on Monday and raised slogans against the Chief Election Commissioner ahead of the proposed march. The demonstration is part of the INDIA bloc’s ongoing campaign against the SIR exercise.
Congress MP Karamvir Singh Boudh said the march was intended to safeguard the Constitution and seek judicial intervention over the concerns raised by the Opposition.
“All workers are coming to Delhi today to save the Constitution of the country. The Chief Justice is the guardian of the Constitution, and the Supreme Court is considered to be under his authority. It is his duty, along with the Supreme Court, to look into any instance where the Constitution is being disregarded, or actions are being taken against its provisions,” Boudh said.
Traffic Restrictions Likely Across Central Delhi
With the proposed march expected to draw a large gathering, traffic restrictions, diversions and barricades may affect several key roads and intersections in the national capital.
The Delhi Traffic Police warned commuters of possible disruptions across New Delhi and central Delhi from 6 a.m. on Monday. According to the advisory, restrictions or diversions may be introduced at around 30 locations to manage traffic and maintain security during the planned demonstration.
Major roads and intersections likely to be affected include the Dhaula Kuan flyover, Jhandewalan, Patel Chowk, Panchkuian, Connaught Place, Mandi House, Lodhi Road flyover, Bhikaji Cama Place and Moti Bagh flyover.
Commuters may also face restrictions or delays on Jantar Mantar Road, Ashoka Road, Sansad Marg and Tolstoy Marg.
Commuters Advised to Plan Journeys in Advance
The traffic police have advised commuters to plan their journeys ahead of time and remain prepared for congestion, diversions and delays, particularly while travelling through central Delhi.
People travelling to railway stations, inter-state bus terminals and the airport have been asked to allow additional time for their journeys. Commuters have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel through areas likely to be affected by the security arrangements.
Security deployment has continued around Jantar Mantar, the designated protest site in the national capital. Barricades were seen blocking access roads to the area on Sunday, while police personnel remained stationed at key intersections to regulate movement and prevent unauthorised gatherings.
The heightened security comes as the INDIA bloc prepares to intensify its protest against the SIR exercise and press for action against the Chief Election Commissioner.