By Rohan Agarwal

New Delhi, Dec 19 (IANS): The iconic Jama Masjid to Kashmere Gate path which houses Red Fort, Chandni Chowk and is generally crowded by transporters, tourists and traders from across the country and abroad witnessed a major clampdown on Thursday as police blocked entry and exit to this path to anyone and everyone.

However, one has to go for frisking first before entering into the pass, police said.

Barricades were put up on every entry and exit of the stretch, while security forces carefully monitored everyone on this path. Meanwhile, the security forces' move aimed to prevent an anti-CAA march which was to start from Red Fort and conclude at Shahidi Park at near ITO.

The move however, received mixed reaction as many criticised the security arrangement, while others made fun out of it.

"Mandir ki line hai lag jao (This is the temple line get in the queue), " said a trader in Old Delhi's Kinari Bazar as he waited patiently to pass through a narrow passage between barricades created by security forces to filter the passer- by.

A group of youth who seemed to be protestors were seen throwing away their charts. One of them were heard saying throw away the chart . "Our main purpose is to enter the pass charts can be redrawn".

Internet and mobile services were blocked in and around Red Fort, though no officials comment were received from Delhi police.

Anyone and everyone were seeing protesting or found having placards were detained.