New Delhi, October 12: Around 20,000 paramilitary personnel deployed in the national capital amid ongoing protests by Opposition parties and other groups will remain in Delhi for at least another month, according to sources. The decision comes amid heightened security concerns and preparations for the upcoming festival season, when large crowds are expected at markets and public places.
The security deployment follows demonstrations by INDIA bloc leaders and supporters over alleged electoral irregularities and demands for action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in connection with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
According to sources, the decision to retain the personnel was taken not only because of the protests but also to ensure public safety during the festive period.
Delhi has also designated three new locations for demonstrations: Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground. Jantar Mantar, which had long served as a designated protest venue, has been removed from the list following the latest administrative decision. Authorities have reportedly completed security audits of the newly designated sites.
Meanwhile, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with other INDIA bloc leaders, marched towards the Supreme Court on Monday to pursue legal action concerning the Election Commission and alleged irregularities in the voter-list revision process.
Security has been tightened at Delhi's borders, railway stations, bus terminals and other sensitive locations to prevent unauthorised gatherings and maintain law and order. Police have intensified vehicle checks and verification drives at hotels, guest houses, lodges and dharamshalas.
Thousands of Delhi Police personnel have also been deployed alongside the paramilitary forces. The New Delhi district has been divided into 20 zones, with senior police officials monitoring the situation.
The Opposition has sought to present its demonstrations as a broader democratic movement involving students and civil society groups, rather than solely a political protest.
With demonstrations continuing and the festive season approaching, authorities are maintaining heightened vigilance across the capital. The extended deployment is intended to help manage crowds, prevent security incidents and maintain public order.
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