Cops deny permission for Jantar Mantar protest seeking Gyanesh Kumar's exit

The protest has been called by the All India Students' Association, Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan. Police sources said around 3,000 to 4,000 people were expected to attend, prompting tighter security arrangements in the area.

In Short

• Delhi Police denied permission for protest at Jantar Mantar on Friday
• Protest called by AISA, MP Manoj Jha and lawyer Prashant Bhushan
• 3,000-4,000 expected, prompting increased security deployment

Delhi Police has denied permission for a proposed protest on Friday at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and deployed additional security in and around New Delhi, officials said.

The protest has been called by the All India Students' Association, Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan.

The gathering is scheduled to begin at 11 am on Friday. Police sources said around 3,000 to 4,000 people were expected to attend, prompting tighter security arrangements in the area.

Central Armed Police Forces personnel have been deployed along with Delhi Police teams at Jantar Mantar and other key points in New Delhi district.

Barricades have been put up, while additional personnel have been stationed at entry and exit points and other sensitive locations to regulate movement and prevent any unauthorised gathering, the sources said.

The organisers are seeking Kumar's resignation or impeachment, alleging irregularities in electoral rolls and the conduct of elections.

They have also raised concerns over the Election Commission's handling of electoral rolls and the Special Intensive Revision exercise, saying it raises questions over the protection of citizens' voting rights.

Sources said AAP leaders and workers, members of the Indian Youth Congress and others are expected to take part in the protest.

Delhi Police's decision came a day after AISA national president Neha Bora, Bhushan and Jha announced the proposed gathering at a press conference.

Bora said the organisers had informed the Parliament Street police station about the gathering, including the expected turnout, timing and details of those responsible for organising it.

Former Delhi deputy chief minister and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia also urged people on X to join the gathering and demanded Kumar's resignation.

The proposed protest comes amid demonstrations by opposition parties, student groups and civil society activists in Delhi over the functioning of the poll panel and the Special Intensive Revision exercise.

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