The Delhi administration has announced a major change in the arrangements for public demonstrations, with Jantar Mantar no longer designated as a protest venue. Three alternative locations have been identified: Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in Shahdara.

The decision was announced through a notification issued by Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar on October 11, following recommendations from a committee constituted by the Union Home Ministry. However, detailed guidelines explaining how protest organisers can book and use the new locations are yet to be released.

Ramlila Maidan: A Central Venue With Higher Costs
Ramlila Maidan, located around four kilometres from Jantar Mantar, has a long history of hosting political gatherings and public movements. The approximately 12-acre ground was the site of Anna Hazare’s 13-day hunger strike in August 2011.

Booking the venue, however, may prove expensive for smaller organisations. A senior MCD official, as reported by ANI, said the daily booking charge is ₹50,000, with an additional refundable security deposit of ₹55,000. Organisers must also obtain clearance from the Delhi Traffic Police.

Part of the ground is currently being used to park heavy vehicles. Although the remaining area is available for booking, organisers cannot reserve only a small portion of the venue. Limited shade and competition from seasonal events may create further challenges.

According to MCD figures, the venue was booked 27 times between January 2024 and September 2026.

CBD Ground: Traffic Management a Major Concern
CBD Ground in Shahdara, maintained by the Delhi Development Authority, covers approximately 12 acres. It is commonly used for weddings, religious functions and other public events.

The surrounding residential and commercial areas have raised questions about the impact of large demonstrations. BS Vohra, head of the East Delhi RWA Joint Front, has reportedly expressed concern over possible traffic congestion, barricading and disruption to nearby residents and businesses.

Authorities will need to address these practical considerations while framing the rules for demonstrations at the venue.

Burari Ground: The Largest Site, but Far From Central Delhi
Burari Ground, also known as Nirankari Ground, spans approximately 50 acres in northwest Delhi. Situated around 18 kilometres from Jantar Mantar, it offers considerably more space for large gatherings.

However, its distance from central Delhi may make it less convenient for groups seeking public attention near government offices and major political centres.

The venue has also faced objections in the past. During an earlier farmers’ agitation, unions reportedly opposed its proposed use, describing it as an “open jail” and raising concerns about access, fencing and the visibility of demonstrations.

A Long History of Protest Restrictions
The relocation of protest venues is not new to Delhi. The Boat Club lawns near India Gate and Vijay Chowk once served as major gathering points before restrictions led demonstrators towards Jantar Mantar during the 1990s.

In 2017, the National Green Tribunal directed that demonstrations at Jantar Mantar be shifted to Ramlila Maidan. The Supreme Court subsequently set aside the blanket restriction in July 2018, emphasising the need to balance citizens’ right to protest with the rights of local residents.

The latest notification brings another change to the capital’s protest arrangements.

What Happens Next?
The three designated grounds offer alternatives for demonstrations, but their practical suitability will depend on the final rules, permission procedures and arrangements for traffic and public access.

Ramlila Maidan is centrally located but expensive to book, CBD Ground faces concerns over its busy surroundings, and Burari Ground offers more space at a greater distance from central Delhi.

Until detailed operating guidelines are issued, organisers will need clarity on how to secure permission and what conditions will apply to peaceful demonstrations at the new venues.