Barricades around Delhi’s Jantar Mantar have been removed, bringing relief to local residents and daily commuters who had been facing difficulties due to movement restrictions in the area. Delhi Police has cleared the obstacles that were placed to regulate public access, allowing people to move more freely through nearby roads. The decision comes days after Jantar Mantar was removed from the list of officially designated protest sites following recommendations made by a committee constituted by the Union Home Ministry. Residents had repeatedly raised concerns that the restrictions were affecting their daily lives, making it difficult to reach their homes and travel through surrounding streets. Some residents had also approached the court over the issue.

Security Measures Had Restricted Movement in the Area
Security arrangements around Jantar Mantar were tightened during recent protests organised by the Cockroach Janata Party and student groups. Barricades were placed at several locations across Lutyens’ Delhi to prevent protesters from reaching the demonstration site. Police personnel were deployed in large numbers, while movement on several roads was restricted. Delhi Police also imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), citing law and order concerns. The provision was used to restrict large gatherings and marches without permission. However, these security arrangements also caused inconvenience to ordinary commuters and residents.

Jantar Mantar Removed From Official Protest Site List
On October 11, Jantar Mantar was removed from the list of officially designated protest venues through a standing order issued by the Delhi Police Commissioner. Following this decision, three alternative locations were identified for organising demonstrations in the national capital. These include Ramlila Maidan in Central Delhi, CBD Ground in East Delhi and Burari Ground in North-West Delhi. Organisers seeking permission for authorised protests will now have to use these designated locations instead of Jantar Mantar.

Delhi Police Explains Its Position Before Supreme Court
Delhi Police recently informed the Supreme Court that Jantar Mantar was no longer suitable for hosting public demonstrations. In its affidavit submitted before Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar stated that the decision was taken after considering the recommendations of the Home Ministry-appointed committee. The police cited traffic congestion, public safety, emergency access and security concerns involving important establishments. According to the affidavit, around 78 foreign embassies, diplomatic missions and international organisations are located within a three-to-four-kilometre radius of Jantar Mantar. Despite the restrictions, the area has remained an important landmark in India's democratic history, witnessing several major political and social movements involving political parties, student groups and civil society organisations.