Delhi Police Urges Public to Avoid CJP’s Tiranga March; Only 11 People May Be Allowed to Carry Flags
New Delhi | October 16, 2026
Delhi Police has urged citizens not to participate in the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ gathering at Connaught Place on Friday, offering to facilitate only 11 people to carry the national flag and sing the national anthem at a suitable location.
The gathering was announced for 5 pm at Central Park in Connaught Place. Police said permission had not been granted for a large assembly, citing security concerns and prohibitory orders in the area. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has also announced that Central Park will remain closed on October 16 and 17.
Section 163 Restrictions Remain in Force
Delhi Police said prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in effect in Connaught Place and adjoining areas. Authorities have warned that violations could invite legal action.
Deputy Commissioner of Police and spokesperson Neha Yadav said officials could facilitate a group of 11 people to carry the Tricolour and sing the national anthem at an appropriate location, subject to prescribed conditions.
The Delhi High Court declined to restrain CJP from holding its proposed protest but recorded the police’s assurance that appropriate measures would be taken to regulate the gathering and maintain public order.
More Than 6,000 Police Personnel to Be Deployed
Security arrangements have been strengthened across central Delhi ahead of the proposed gathering. Reports said more than 6,000 Delhi Police personnel would be deployed in and around Connaught Place, in addition to approximately 26,000 Central Armed Police Forces personnel already stationed in the capital amid continuing protests.
Authorities have appealed to residents and visitors to avoid the area around Central Park. The arrangements are intended to prevent unauthorised gatherings, protect public and private property, and minimise disruption to businesses and commuters.
Why Is CJP Organising the Tiranga Gathering?
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke called for the gathering following the arrests of party co-convenors Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka after an incident at Jantar Mantar involving the unfurling of the national flag. The two were subsequently remanded to five days of judicial custody on trespass-related charges, according to reports.
The party has been protesting over alleged electoral irregularities and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The proposed Connaught Place gathering followed restrictions surrounding the use of Jantar Mantar as a protest venue. The Aam Aadmi Party also appealed to supporters and members of the public to join the demonstration.
Central Park Closed for Two Days
The NDMC announced that Central Park in Connaught Place would remain closed to the public on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons. The closure forms part of the security measures ahead of the proposed gathering.
Market associations and traders have expressed concerns about possible disruption to business during the festive season. Police have reiterated that the national flag and anthem must be treated with respect and that any permitted activity must comply with applicable restrictions.
Security Measures Ahead of the Gathering
The proposed march has brought renewed attention to the balance between public demonstrations, law-and-order requirements and access to commercial areas. Although the High Court did not prohibit the gathering outright, the police have maintained that any activity must follow the restrictions in force.
Authorities have asked the public to cooperate with security arrangements as they prepare for the planned event.
