Delhi Police deploys security forces around Connaught Place ahead of opposition protest

Delhi Police deployed multiple teams and paramilitary forces around Connaught Place on Thursday in anticipation of a fresh protest by the opposition INDIA bloc against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

The security clampdown follows an announcement by alliance leaders to hold a lunch at a restaurant in the K block of Connaught Place prior to launching their demonstration. According to officials, police deployment has been stepped up to secure the restaurant and surrounding area, with additional paramilitary units dispatched to prevent protesters from marching towards Jantar Mantar or the Election Commission office.

Concurrently, the Indian Youth Congress announced a march originating from the Rajghat area. A senior police officer stated that local staff and security forces have been stationed at Rajghat, though authorities remain uncertain whether the opposition leaders intend to head toward Rajghat or Jantar Mantar.

The escalating tensions follow a similar opposition gathering on Wednesday, when INDIA bloc MPs assembled for a lunch at a Janpath restaurant before attempting to reach Jantar Mantar in three buses. Police intercepted the group near the Le Meridien hotel, triggering clashes between protesters and security personnel. Following Wednesday’s confrontation, authorities registered an FIR against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.