Delhi Locks Down Ahead of Cockroach Janta Party Protest
Delhi authorities deployed 25,000 security personnel and shut down transport hubs to block a Cockroach Janta Party protest demanding the Chief Election Commissioner's resignation.
The Government of India has implemented a massive security lockdown in New Delhi ahead of a planned October 10 protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and the All India Students’ Association. The demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls resulted in the removal of over 130 million names to disadvantage opposition supporters.
To prevent the gathering at Jantar Mantar, the Delhi Police denied official permission, citing a late application and previous rule violations. Authorities deployed approximately 23,000 to 26,000 personnel, including Central Armed Police Forces, and established 10 temporary detention centers. Security measures include multi-layered barricading, facial recognition surveillance, and the closure of all retail liquor vends on October 9 and 10.
Transport disruptions are widespread. The Ministry of Railways cancelled numerous Mail and Express trains to New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations, while the Delhi Police requested the closure of 57 metro stations. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has vowed to proceed despite the restrictions, while INDIA bloc leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have held separate protests against the Election Commission.
Business interests have reacted to the instability. The Chamber of Trade and Industry reported a 70% drop in market activity and requested a permanent ban on large-scale protests in central Delhi during the festive season. Meanwhile, Joint Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma urged officers to maintain discipline and use minimum force during the operation.
