The Delhi Police has removed Jantar Mantar from the list of designated venues for protests and demonstrations and named three alternative locations. The decision has raised concerns among activists about public access to protest sites and the ability of citizens to bring their demands directly to political leaders and government officials.

Why in the News?

On October 12, 2026, Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued an order de-notifying Jantar Mantar as a designated protest venue. The three alternative locations are:

  • Ramlila Ground: Around 4 km from Jantar Mantar.
  • Burari Ground: Around 15 km away.
  • CBD Ground, East Delhi: Around 13 km away.

The decision follows recommendations from a committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. Revised Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for demonstrations at the new venues are yet to be issued.

1. Background: Jantar Mantar as a Protest Site

Jantar Mantar has been an important location for public demonstrations because of its central position in Delhi and its proximity to Parliament, government offices and media organisations. The earlier Standing Order No. L&O/48/22, issued on April 28, 2022, recognised Jantar Mantar as a designated protest site. Its main provisions included:

  • Protests were permitted between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
  • Demonstrations could not continue for more than one day at a time.
  • The arrangements aimed to provide space for public gatherings while limiting disruption to traffic and residents.

Before Jantar Mantar became a major protest venue, the Boat Club area near India Gate had hosted large public rallies.

2. Why Are Activists Opposing the Decision?

Activists argue that the alternative venues are farther from the main centres of political decision-making. This may make it harder for protesters to attract the attention of elected representatives, government officials and the media. Their concerns include:

  • Reduced accessibility: Distant locations may increase travel time and costs for participants.
  • Limited political visibility: Protests near Parliament and government offices can make it easier to communicate demands to decision-makers.
  • Reduced media attention: The central location of Jantar Mantar helped demonstrators reach journalists and media organisations.
  • Restrictions on public participation: Activists fear that relocating demonstrations could weaken the visibility of public grievances.

Social activist Shabnam Hashmi, who has participated in protests since 1975, argued that restrictions on the available area and permitted hours had already reduced the usefulness of Jantar Mantar as a protest venue.

3. Government Order and Administrative Reasons

The Delhi Police issued the order following recommendations from a committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to examine alternative protest locations.

  • The earlier guidelines sought to balance the right to demonstrate with the need to maintain public order and minimise disruption to residents and traffic.
  • The revised SOPs will clarify how demonstrations are to be organised at the three new locations.

4. Link with Recent Protests in Delhi

The decision came amid protests over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

  • During the preceding weekend, security arrangements were strengthened to prevent demonstrators from reaching Jantar Mantar. Thousands of people were detained across the capital.
  • The change in designated protest venues has therefore raised further debate over access to public spaces for demonstrations.

5. Significance for Democracy and Public Participation

Public protest is an important means through which citizens express grievances and seek accountability from authorities. The location of a demonstration can influence its visibility and accessibility. Key issues include:

  • Freedom of speech and expression: Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution protects freedom of speech and expression.
  • Right to assemble peacefully: Article 19(1)(b) guarantees the right to assemble peacefully and without arms.
  • Reasonable restrictions: These rights are subject to constitutionally permitted restrictions, including those relating to public order.
  • Public order and traffic management: Authorities must manage demonstrations while respecting constitutionally protected freedoms.
  • Access to decision-makers: The proximity of protest venues to government institutions can affect the visibility of public demands.

The central question is how to balance the management of public gatherings with citizens' ability to exercise their democratic rights.

Conclusion

The removal of Jantar Mantar as a designated protest venue has renewed debate over the accessibility of public spaces for democratic demonstrations. The alternative sites may help authorities manage gatherings, but their distance from political institutions has raised concerns among activists. Transparent rules, accessible venues, and a balance between public order and peaceful assembly are important for protecting democratic participation.