Delhi Police has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, in parts of central Delhi as the ongoing protests over the alleged NEET examination irregularities continue. Along with the restrictions, the Delhi Traffic Police has issued a public advisory urging commuters to avoid the notified areas unless absolutely necessary and to use alternate routes wherever possible.
The restrictions have been put in place to maintain public order around the protest sites, where security has been intensified following large gatherings and recent law-and-order concerns.
Traffic Police Advises Public to Avoid Restricted Areas
According to the advisory, commuters are requested to stay away from the notified zones under Section 163 and plan their travel using alternative routes. Authorities have warned that movement in these areas may remain restricted until further notice.
The Traffic Police stated that the measures are intended to ensure public safety, facilitate emergency services, and minimise traffic congestion around sensitive locations.
Cab, Delivery and Logistics Platforms Asked to Regulate Operations
The advisory also directs app-based mobility services, ride-hailing platforms, food delivery companies, logistics operators, quick-commerce services, and e-commerce platforms to regulate their operations within the restricted areas.
Authorities have suggested that companies may temporarily implement measures such as geo-fencing, limiting ride bookings, or suspending deliveries to and from the notified zones for the duration of the prohibitory orders. The objective is to protect drivers, delivery partners, customers, and the general public while allowing emergency and essential services to continue.
Police Clarify Rumours Over Food Delivery Ban
Following the advisory, several social media posts claimed that Delhi Police had imposed a complete ban on food delivery services across New Delhi. The police later issued a clarification, describing these reports as false and misleading.
Officials emphasised that the advisory only asks service providers to regulate operations within the notified areas under Section 163 and does not amount to a citywide prohibition on food delivery or app-based services.
Metro Closures and Security Measures Continue
The restrictions coincide with heightened security arrangements in central Delhi. Multiple Delhi Metro stations around the protest zone remain closed, and security personnel continue to monitor movement in and around Jantar Mantar.
The ongoing restrictions have affected daily commuters, office-goers, students, and businesses operating near the protest site, while emergency services remain exempt from the prohibitory orders.
Authorities Prioritise Public Safety
Delhi Police has stated that the measures are precautionary and aimed at maintaining law and order while ensuring that emergency services continue without disruption. Citizens have been advised to cooperate with authorities, follow official traffic updates, and avoid spreading unverified information regarding the restrictions.
As discussions between the Centre and protest representatives continue, authorities are expected to review the restrictions based on the prevailing security situation. Until then, commuters and service providers are advised to follow official advisories and exercise caution while travelling through central Delhi.
