New Delhi: The ongoing CJP (Campaign for Judicial Protection) protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has significantly disrupted normal life in the national capital. In view of the security situation, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has decided to keep 17 metro stations closed from 7:30 am on Friday, July 24, until further notice. Meanwhile, following the escalation of protests and incidents of violence in some areas, police have tightened security by barricading several major roads. Internet services around the protest site have also been temporarily suspended.
Which metro stations will remain closed?
According to the advisory issued by DMRC, entry and exit of passengers at Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Seva Tirtha, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, Shivaji Stadium and Jhandewalan stations will remain closed till further orders.
Will interchange facility be available?
Despite the station being closed, interchange facilities at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat will continue. That is, passengers will only be able to change lines at these stations, but will not be allowed to exit or enter the station.
What is the situation in Delhi due to the protests?
The protest has now moved beyond Jantar Mantar to Sansad Marg and Tolstoy Marg. In view of the situation, a heavy police force has been deployed in these areas, and movement has been restricted by barricading at many places. Security agencies are continuously monitoring to maintain law and order.
What are the preparations for protests across the country?
CJP has appealed for peaceful demonstrations at the district level across the country on Friday. The organisation has issued a poster on social media platform X calling on student organisations and supporters to unite and join the protest.
What has been the impact on common people and businesses?
The impact of the internet shutdown and security restrictions was not limited to the protesters only. People living in Connaught Place, Mandi House, Bengali Market, Raisina Road, Barakhamba Road and surrounding areas are also facing problems. Food delivery and cab booking services have also been affected. At the same time, New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) has appealed to shopkeepers and restaurant operators to close their establishments prematurely. Its impact is being seen on around 2,000 business establishments in Connaught Place.
What did the Supreme Court say about the closure of the metro station?
Lawyers and parties coming to the Supreme Court are also facing problems due to metro services being affected. On this, the Chief Justice (CJI) said that if the situation is not resolved soon, then the court will consider intervening in the matter.
What relief did the court give to the lawyers?
The Chief Justice clarified that if a lawyer is unable to reach court due to metro services being affected, no adverse order will be passed in his case. At the same time, Supreme Court Bar Association President Vikas Singh said that at present the affected metro stations are closed and he has not received information about any new instructions in this regard.
