New Delhi: The Central Park in Connaught Place will remain closed to the public on October 16 and 17 in view of a proposed protest demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) announced the closure as security arrangements were strengthened across central Delhi.

Delhi Police has also cited prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and urged the public to stay away from the proposed protest area.

Key Points
- Connaught Place Central Park will remain closed on October 16 and 17.
- Restrictions under Section 163 of the BNSS have been cited by police.
- Traffic disruptions are expected from 3 pm on October 16.
- Security arrangements are being strengthened around Connaught Place and Jantar Mantar.
- Several roads in central New Delhi may experience diversions or congestion.

Security Tightened Ahead of Friday’s Protest
The arrangements come after the Delhi High Court declined to prohibit the proposed protest at Central Park on October 16. A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Vasudeva Sambare and Justice Sanjay Sharma was hearing a petition filed by Connaught Place shopkeeper Anil Kumar Gupta.

Police sources said extensive security arrangements were expected around Connaught Place and Jantar Mantar. Several companies of paramilitary personnel had reportedly been deployed in the national capital, while police officers would be stationed at key locations.

Barricades may be installed, and the movement of protesters and commuters could be regulated to maintain law and order.

A senior police officer said Connaught Place was not a designated protest site. According to the officer, demonstrations could be held at Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground or CBD Ground after obtaining the necessary permissions.

Police Appeal Regarding the National Flag and Anthem
Police said officials would ensure that the national flag is displayed and carried, and the national anthem is sung, with appropriate respect and dignity. They indicated that a group of 11 people could be permitted to carry the national flag and sing the national anthem at an authorised location, subject to the applicable conditions.

Delhi Traffic Police Issues Advisory
Delhi Traffic Police has warned that traffic around Connaught Place and other parts of central New Delhi may be affected from 3 pm on Friday, October 16, due to the proposed protest.

Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time and use public transport wherever possible. Depending on the situation, traffic diversions may be introduced. Drivers have been asked to follow the instructions of traffic personnel.

Roads Where Traffic May Be Affected

The following roads and areas may experience congestion or traffic restrictions on October 16:

- Parliament Street
- Baba Kharak Singh Marg
- Shaheed Bhagat Singh Marg
- Panchkuian Road
- Basant Lane
- Chelmsford Road
- Minto Road
- Barakhamba Road
- Kasturba Gandhi Marg
- Janpath
- Roads around Rail Bhawan
- Rafi Marg
- C-Hexagon
- Patel Chowk
- Mandi House
- Windsor Place
- Gol Dak Khana
- Ashoka Road, from GPO to C-Hexagon
- Tilak Marg
- Tolstoy Marg
- Sikandra Road

Commuters Advised to Plan Ahead
People travelling through central Delhi on October 16 are advised to check the latest traffic updates before leaving and consider alternative routes. Motorists should also be prepared for possible diversions and delays around Connaught Place and nearby roads.