New Delhi, October 16: Delhi Police has stepped up security at Connaught Place ahead of the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) planned ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ rally on Friday. Heavy security has been deployed inside Central Park near Gate No. 1, while Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel have been stationed near Gate No. 2 of Palika Bazaar.

Speaking about the proposed protest, DCP Special Cell Narra Chaitanya said, “All arrangements are in place. We will ensure that the situation is peaceful. As of now, you can see that the situation is very peaceful.”

Delhi Traffic Police has also announced traffic restrictions and possible diversions in and around Connaught Place from 3 pm onwards.

“In view of a proposed gathering at Central Park, Connaught Place, New Delhi, on 16.10.2026, traffic movement on certain roads in and around Connaught Place is likely to be affected from 03:00 PM onwards,” Delhi Traffic Police said in a post on X.

Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow sufficient travel time, use public transport wherever possible and follow instructions issued by traffic personnel. The police added that diversions may be implemented depending on the prevailing situation.

Police Issue Notice Over Proposed Demonstration

Delhi Police issued a notice to Dipke over the proposed demonstration scheduled for October 16, citing concerns about public safety, traffic congestion, and maintaining law and order.

According to the notice, an appeal circulated on social media asked people to assemble at Connaught Place at 5 pm, even though the organisers had not obtained the necessary legal permission for the proposed demonstration.

Also Read: Delhi Police serve notice on CJP Activist Abhijeet Dipke over proposed Tiranga Yatra

Police pointed out that Connaught Place is a major commercial hub with limited entry and exit routes, raising concerns about crowd management and emergency evacuation. The gathering could also disrupt business activities and adversely affect the livelihoods of traders and employees in the area, the notice stated.

The police also highlighted the presence of Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, which connects the Blue and Yellow lines and handles an average daily footfall of approximately 200,000 passengers. An increase in crowds, the notice warned, could lead to congestion, disorder and a potential stampede.

Authorities further expressed concerns over possible traffic disruptions across Central Delhi, difficulties in accessing hospitals and emergency services, and security implications arising from Connaught Place’s proximity to Parliament, the Central Secretariat and diplomatic areas.

Police Cite Previous Protests and Legal Restrictions

The notice also referred to previous demonstrations organised by the Cockroach Janata Party, alleging violations of permission conditions and incidents of violence and damage to public and private property following calls to march towards Parliament.

Citing prohibitory orders issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), police warned that violations could attract action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other applicable laws.

Invoking Sections 29 to 33 of the Delhi Police Act, 1978, the notice directed Dipke not to organise demonstrations, processions or rallies in the area, carry items that could be used as weapons, or use loudspeakers.

Police also referred to the Supreme Court’s judgment inMazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan vs Union of India, noting that public demonstrations must be assessed in the context of traffic movement, public safety and public order.

The notice stated that Connaught Place is not a designated site for demonstrations and directed Dipke to comply with the law. It added that protests at designated locations require prior permission from the competent authorities.