Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 10: Delhi Police have detained around 30 to 40 people with criminal records across all 15 districts of the national capital as part of preventive measures ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) proposed protest at Jantar Mantar on Saturday, October 10, police sources said.
The detentions came as security arrangements were intensified across Delhi to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents during the planned demonstration.
According to police sources, personnel have also been closely monitoring individuals suspected of having the ability to mobilise people or influence them to participate in the protest. Surveillance has been stepped up outside the residences of such individuals as part of the preventive measures.
The security operation is part of a broader plan drawn up by Delhi Police ahead of the demonstration, which is being organised by the CJP in collaboration with the All India Students' Association (AISA). The protesters are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the revision of electoral rolls.
According to The Indian Express, Delhi Police had earlier identified 2,873 people with criminal records during the CJP's July protest at Jantar Mantar. The individuals were flagged through the Facial Recognition System (FRS), including 989 accused in serious criminal cases, 101 named in murder cases and at least 42 allegedly involved in two or more murders. Police had planned to track those with criminal antecedents through their local police stations to prevent possible disturbances.
The wider security arrangements include barricading points across the New Delhi district and dedicated detention centres in all 15 police districts. Police have also been checking hotels and guesthouses and monitoring the arrival of groups suspected of travelling to the capital for the protest.
The protest has drawn attention amid allegations by opposition groups and student organisations that authorities are attempting to prevent demonstrators from reaching Delhi. Police, meanwhile, have maintained that the preventive measures are intended to ensure public order and security.
The proposed demonstration follows ongoing criticism of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with protesters alleging that the exercise has led to the removal of large numbers of voters and demanding accountability from the Election Commission.