Delhi Police have stepped up security across central Delhi and announced traffic restrictions ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) planned ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ rally at Connaught Place on Friday, October 16, 2026. The rally has been called for 5 pm at Central Park in Connaught Place. Police have set up barricades and deployed security personnel in key areas to prevent any disturbance and maintain law and order. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has also announced that Central Park will remain closed to the public on October 16 and 17.
The proposed rally comes amid an ongoing political dispute over voter list revisions and demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke called for the rally after two party leaders, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, were arrested and sent to judicial custody. The party has alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and has called on citizens, student groups and political parties to join its protest. These claims remain allegations, while the Election Commission has defended its voter list revision process.
Police have said that permission has not been granted for a large gathering at Central Park. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) are in force in Connaught Place and nearby areas. However, officials have indicated that a small group may be allowed to hold a symbolic flag march at a suitable location, subject to arrangements made by the authorities. Police have urged people not to gather at Central Park and have asked everyone to maintain peace.
Security arrangements include more than 6,000 Delhi Police personnel, supported by Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Additional personnel have been kept ready if the crowd grows. Barricades and surveillance measures have been put in place around Connaught Place, Rajiv Chowk, Palika Bazaar and nearby areas. Authorities are also monitoring the situation to prevent unauthorised gatherings and manage the movement of people.
The Delhi Traffic Police have warned that vehicle movement on 21 roads in and around Connaught Place may be affected from 3 pm. The roads include Sansad Marg, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Janpath, Barakhamba Road, Panchkuian Road, Minto Road, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Tolstoy Marg, Tilak Marg and parts of Ashok Road. Traffic diversions may be introduced depending on the situation. Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time and use public transport wherever possible. They should also follow instructions from traffic personnel and avoid roadside parking.
Although Central Park will remain closed for two days, shops and markets in Connaught Place are officially expected to remain open. Metro services are also expected to continue, though commuters should follow any fresh instructions issued by the authorities. Traders have expressed concern that protests and security restrictions could affect business during the festive season. Police have said they are taking steps to protect shops and other establishments while managing the planned gathering.
With heavy security and traffic restrictions in place, residents and visitors have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel through central Delhi during the afternoon and evening. The situation will depend on the size of the gathering and any further decisions taken by the police. Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with security personnel and follow official traffic updates.