The Delhi Police has stepped up security across the Capital ahead of two protest marches against the Election Commission (EC) scheduled for Sunday. Around 5,000 personnel, including members of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and other paramilitary units, have been deployed as authorities prepare for a possible large gathering.

The protests come as demonstrations against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar enter their third consecutive day.

Police said permission has not been granted for either of the proposed marches from India Gate to Jantar Mantar. Despite this, officials said they are preparing for a significant turnout and have strengthened security arrangements along the route.

Two Protest Marches Planned on Sunday

Two separate marches have been announced against CEC Gyanesh Kumar.

The first, described as a Citizens’ March, is scheduled to begin at India Gate at 3pm and proceed towards Jantar Mantar. The second has been called by the Indian Youth Congress and is scheduled for 5pm along the same route.

In view of the expected gatherings, police have installed multiple layers of barricades at several points leading towards Jantar Mantar.

Chief Election Comissioner Gyanesh Kumar
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Chief Election Comissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Credit: X/ANI

Access has been restricted from Tolstoy Marg, Janpath Road, Sansad Marg and the Kerala Bhawan side. Barricades have also been placed around Ashoka Road and C-Hexagon as part of the security arrangements.

RAF, Paramilitary Forces Deployed

According to Delhi Police, personnel from district units, reserve forces, the RAF and other paramilitary organisations have been positioned on both sides of the stretch between Parliament Street police station and Jantar Mantar.

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A police officer said the deployment was necessary despite the lack of permission for the marches.

“Though permission has not been granted, we are expecting huge numbers,” the officer said, seeking anonymity.

PCR vans and other police vehicles will remain stationed on roads leading towards Jantar Mantar. Police said the arrangements are aimed at managing the expected crowd and maintaining law and order.

CCTV, Drones to Monitor Situation

Security agencies are also using surveillance systems to keep track of the situation. CCTV cameras will be monitored directly from the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), New Delhi, according to the police.

Drones will also be used to monitor crowds and assess the security situation if required.

Police personnel deployed for the arrangements have been provided with anti-riot equipment. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also been informed about the security measures being taken in the Capital.

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The heightened security comes after protests around Jantar Mantar in recent days and amid expectations of further gatherings on Sunday.

FIRs Registered Over Recent Protests

Delhi Police has registered three FIRs against protesters in connection with the recent demonstrations at and around Jantar Mantar.

The police have also received three complaints alleging sexual harassment of women protesters and journalists by police personnel. These complaints have been forwarded to the Crime Branch for investigation.

The security arrangements are expected to remain closely monitored as the two proposed marches approach. With both gatherings planned along the India Gate to Jantar Mantar route and no permission granted for the marches, police have prepared a substantial deployment to deal with any potential law-and-order concerns.