Delhi Police Responds To Jantar Mantar Closure Reports After CJP Protest Barricade Row
Police clarify Jantar Mantar access after protest reports.
The Delhi Police on Thursday dismissed social media rumours claiming that Jantar Mantar had been closed to protests, clarifying that the site continues to function as an authorised venue for peaceful demonstrations. The clarification came after speculation intensified following recent protests, including a demonstration by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). In a post on X, the Delhi Police described the reports as "false, misleading and devoid of facts." It reiterated that Jantar Mantar remains open for lawful protests and continues to be one of the designated locations in the national capital where organisations and individuals can hold demonstrations after obtaining the required permissions.
"Rumours are circulating on social media alleging that Jantar Mantar has been locked or closed for protests. These claims are entirely false, misleading, and devoid of facts," the police said. It further clarified that "Jantar Mantar remains an active and authorised site for peaceful and authorised demonstrations." The clarification follows reports and online claims suggesting that barricades at the protest venue had been welded shut after recent demonstrations, leading to speculation that authorities had permanently restricted access to the site.
However, the police denied any such move and stressed that the venue continues to operate under established guidelines. Delhi Police said protests at Jantar Mantar are governed by the Supreme Court's directions and the force's Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) framed in compliance with those orders. According to the guidelines, a maximum of 1,000 people may be permitted to gather at the venue for a demonstration, subject to approval and adherence to prescribed conditions. Officials emphasised that organisers are required to obtain prior permission before staging protests and must comply with the conditions laid down to ensure public order and safety.
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The police added that demonstrations at the site continue to be regulated under the existing legal framework. Jantar Mantar has long served as one of Delhi's principal venues for public protests, hosting demonstrations by political parties, student groups, civil society organisations, farmers and other interest groups. The site has frequently been at the centre of public discourse on the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. The latest clarification comes amid heightened attention on protest-related issues in the capital following recent demonstrations over examination irregularities and other political developments.
Authorities have repeatedly maintained that while the right to peaceful protest is protected, gatherings must be conducted within the limits prescribed by law and court orders. By rejecting the rumours, the Delhi Police sought to reassure the public that Jantar Mantar remains available for authorised demonstrations. The force also urged people not to rely on unverified information circulating on social media and to refer only to official sources for updates regarding public protest venues and security arrangements.
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