Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Nov 14: The Delhi Police has proposed a fresh set of guidelines for protests, demonstrations, rallies and public meetings at Ramlila Ground, setting a maximum gathering limit of 50,000 people and restricting events to seven hours a day.
Under the draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), public gatherings will be permitted between 10 am and 5 pm. Organisers will have to submit applications at least 10 days before the proposed event and obtain a venue availability certificate from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
Although the overall capacity of Ramlila Ground has been fixed at 50,000 under the proposed guidelines, the number of participants allowed at each event will be decided by the competent authority. The decision will depend on the nature of the gathering, expected turnout and security requirements.
The draft SOP also makes it mandatory for organisers to coordinate with the police regarding traffic management and parking arrangements. Blocking roads, footpaths or routes meant for emergency access will not be permitted.
Participants will be prohibited from carrying weapons, inflammable materials and other items banned under the law. Organisers will also require prior permission to deploy drones during events.
The draft SOP has been forwarded to the Delhi Police Headquarters for approval. The guidelines are expected to come into effect after receiving the necessary clearance.
The move follows the Delhi Police's decision in October to de-notify Jantar Mantar as a designated protest venue and identify Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground as alternative locations for demonstrations.
The proposed rules aim to regulate public gatherings at Ramlila Ground while ensuring traffic management, security and public safety.