New Delhi: Central Delhi remained under tight security on Monday as protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar despite restrictions, with police stepping up vigil ahead of the proposed ‘Chalo Sansad’ march coinciding with the start of Parliament Monsoon Session.
Barricades were put up at several locations around Jantar Mantar and Parliament Street, while a large number of Delhi Police personnel were deployed to prevent protesters from marching towards Parliament. Authorities said permission had not been granted for the demonstration and warned that any atempt to violate security arrangements would invite action under the law.
The protest is part of an ongoing campaign led by students and youth groups demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and recruitment processes. Demonstrators are seeking greater transparency in the conduct of examinations, stricter action against those involved in paper leak cases, and long term reforms to restore confidence in the system.
Several protesters who had assembled at Jantar Mantar were removed by police during the day as security measures were tightened. Even so, groups continued to gather at the designated protest site, insisting they would pursue their demands through peaceful means.
The movement has also drawn attention because of the participation of education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike. His detention in recent days and subsequent appeal to the government to address the protesters concerns have added momentum to the campaign, with supporters urging the Centre to engage in dialogue.
Officials defended the extensive security arrangements, saying the deployment was necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament and maintain law and order in the high security zone. Traffic restrictions and diversions were enforced in parts of central Delhi, causing delays for commuters throughout the day.
As the Monsoon Session got underway, the developments at Jantar Mantar continued to unfold under close watch from security agencies. With protesters showing no signs of backing down and authorities maintaining a firm stance, all eyes remain on whether the government will respond to the demands or the demonstrations will gather further momentum in the days ahead.
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