Delhi Police Enforces Six-Day Ban on Protests Amid Security Concerns

Delhi Police has prohibited protests and gatherings of five or more persons in central and bordering areas of the city for six days, citing law and order issues. The order by Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, addressing security threats posed by upcoming elections and VVIP movements, has been criticized by Delhi minister Saurabh Bhardwaj.

Delhi Police have imposed a prohibition on protests and gatherings of five or more individuals in central and border regions of the city for the next six days due to law and order concerns.

The directive, issued by Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, enforces Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita across New Delhi, North and Central districts, and all police jurisdictions sharing borders with other states.

The ban, effective until October 5, coincides with high-profile VVIP movements around Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary and ongoing state elections, necessitating heightened security and continuous monitoring.

Roughly 120 activists from Ladakh, including climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, have been detained under the new order while marching towards the national capital.

Delhi minister Saurabh Bhardwaj criticized the order, alleging it reflects the Centre's fear of public dissent over the rise of gangster activities and extortion cases in the city.

(With inputs from agencies.)