Delhi Police on Friday, October 2, imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) across New Delhi district ahead of a proposed protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. Police denied permission for the gathering and deployed extra security across New Delhi.
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Why the Protest Is Happening
Organisers and AAP leaders demand Kumar’s resignation over alleged election irregularities. Several student and youth organisations have also announced the protest, which coincides with Gandhi Jayanti. The wider row centres on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
What Section 163 Bans
The order prohibits assemblies of five or more people, processions, demonstrations, picketing and dharnas without prior written permission. Slogans and speeches are also barred. Carrying weapons is banned too. Police personnel and water cannons have been deployed at the site. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Sachin Sharma urged people to follow the restrictions.
11 Metro Stations Closed
Entry and exit are closed until further notice at Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Seva Teerth, Mandi House, Lok Kalyan Marg, INA, Chawri Bazar, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg and New Delhi. Interchange remains available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, New Delhi and Central Secretariat.
Affected Roads
Jantar Mantar Road has been closed to traffic. Restrictions and regulated movement apply around Connaught Place, Patel Chowk, GPO, Tolstoy Marg, Parliament Street and adjoining roads, and commuters are asked to avoid Ashoka Road where possible. Stopping or parking near these stretches is prohibited. Expect longer travel times and use alternate routes.
BNS Section 223 Rules for Violation
Violating the order invites legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. The section covers disobeying an order issued by a public servant. If the disobedience causes obstruction or annoyance, the punishment can be up to six months in jail, a fine of Rs 2,500, or both.
