New Delhi, March 26: In anticipation of the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) scheduled protest calling for a “gherao” at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence on Tuesday, security measures have been bolstered at Lok Kalyan Marg, officials reported. The protest comes in response to the recent arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who faces allegations of involvement in a conspiracy related to the formulation of an excise policy favoring specific individuals.
Delhi Police has ramped up security not only around the PM’s residence but also at various metro stations across Central Delhi. The Lok Kalyan Marg metro station’s entry and exit gates have been shut as a precautionary measure, according to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Similar restrictions have been imposed at Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat metro stations until further notice.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar emphasized that no permission has been granted for the protest, citing concerns about potential gatherings at Patel Chowk Metro station. Security personnel, including those in anti-riot gear, have been deployed to deter any unauthorized assemblies.
Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure have been enforced in the vicinity of the PM’s residence to prevent protests. Traffic disruptions are expected in New Delhi and Central Delhi due to the planned “gherao,” with diversions implemented at seven points.
AAP leader Gopal Rai announced the party’s intention to stage a nationwide protest, with a focus on encircling the PM’s residence. Kejriwal has denied the allegations against him, attributing his arrest to political vendettas orchestrated by the BJP-led central government.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has accused Kejriwal of being the “kingpin” and a “key conspirator” in the scrapped excise policy, allegedly colluding with AAP ministers, leaders, and others. As tensions escalate between AAP and the central government, Delhi remains on high alert to maintain law and order amidst the looming protests.
