- Delhi Metro shut 16 stations on Wednesday due to security reasons, as confirmed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
- The closures are part of heightened security measures amid ongoing protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar.
- The affected stations include Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat, with interchange facilities still available at these locations.
- On Monday, several metro stations were also closed as thousands marched to Parliament in response to the CJP's call over alleged examination irregularities.
- 20 additional companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were airlifted from West Bengal to enhance security in the national capital.
- The protests are focused on demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak controversy.
- The closures coincide with the third day of Parliament's Monsoon Session, with all affected stations located near Jantar Mantar and the Parliament complex.
Sixteen metro stations in Delhi, including Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, and Mandi House, were closed on July 22 due to heightened security measures amid ongoing protests by the Cockraoch Janta Party (CJP).3
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced the closures, stating they would remain in effect until further notice.1
“Due to security reasons... the metro stations have been closed till further instructions,” DMRC said in a post on X.
The affected stations include Lok Kalyan Marg, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Janpath, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, and Shivaji Stadium.
Despite the closures, interchange facilities remain operational at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat.
The protests, which have drawn thousands to central Delhi, are in response to allegations of irregularities in examination and recruitment systems, with demonstrators demanding accountability and reforms in the education sector.
“Protesters are also seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak row,” a source noted.6
Security has been significantly increased, with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deployed at key metro stations and routes leading to Parliament.
“Earlier, 20 additional companies of the CRPF were airlifted from West Bengal after the Ministry of Home Affairs ordered their immediate deployment in the national capital,” officials confirmed.5
Traffic diversions and congestion are also expected around Connaught Place, Parliament Street, and Rafi Marg due to the ongoing demonstrations.
Support for protesters includes food, first aid, and shelter provided by the Sikh community, with Gurdwara Bangla Sahib opening its doors for refuge during the protests.
“The CJP's 'Sansad Chalo' march entered its third day as protesters demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak row. Security in the national capital has been stepped up with 20 additional CRPF companies airlifted from West Bengal and traffic diversions around Connaught Place.”
Deccan Herald
News18
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