Delhi Police on Monday, October 12, 2026, de‑notified Jantar Mantar as a designated protest venue, replacing it with three alternative sites: Ramlila Ground about 4 km away, Burari Ground 15 km distant, and the CBD Ground in East Delhi roughly 13 km from the capital’s heart. The change follows a standing order issued by Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar.
The order, based on recommendations from a Union Ministry of Home Affairs committee, aims to provide alternative locations for demonstrations while reducing disruption to residents and traffic. Delhi Police will issue revised standard operating procedures for the three new grounds separately. The decision partially amends Standing Order No. L&O/48/22, dated April 28, 2022, which had identified Jantar Mantar as the sole designated site, limiting protests to 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and prohibiting multi‑day events.
For years, activists have valued Jantar Mantar for its proximity to Parliament, government offices, and media centers, enabling direct pressure on elected officials. Bhim Kumar, a veteran protester, noted that the site’s closeness allowed demonstrators to bring their demands directly to those in power. Social activist Shabnam Hashmi highlighted the site’s centrality and accessibility, arguing that restrictions on space and hours have gradually diminished its effectiveness.
The de‑notification comes amid a week of protests over a special revision of electoral rolls and calls for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation. Security measures prevented student groups from reaching Jantar Mantar, leading to thousands detained across Delhi. Hashmi said the new venues would not stop mobilization, predicting that citizens would reclaim public spaces elsewhere. Delhi Police have yet to release the detailed SOPs for the three new protest sites.
