Delhi Police De-notifies Jantar Mantar as a Protest Site

Why in News?

On 12 October 2026, the Delhi Police denotified Jantar Mantar as a designated protest site and identified Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground in north Delhi and CBD Ground in east Delhi as alternative locations. The decision followed a recommendation by a committee constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Constitutional Provisions Related to the Right to Protest

Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) and the right to assemble peaceably and without arms under Article 19(1)(b).

These rights are subject to reasonable restrictions on specified grounds:

• Article 19(2): Restrictions on freedom of speech and expression may be imposed on grounds including the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, contempt of court, defamation and incitement to an offence.
• Article 19(3): The right to assemble peacefully and without arms may be reasonably restricted in the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India and public order.

Why Does Delhi Have a Different Police Administration?

Under Article 239AA(3)(a) of the Constitution, the Delhi Legislative Assembly can legislate on State List and Concurrent List matters applicable to Delhi, except for public order, police and land, which are excluded from its legislative competence.

Consequently, Delhi Police functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The police regulate demonstrations, process applications for permission and enforce conditions governing protests at designated sites.

Earlier Framework for Protests at Jantar Mantar

Under the earlier arrangement, organisers were required to apply at least 10 days in advance to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar, which had a capacity limit of 1,000 people. Ramlila Maidan was another designated protest venue, with an approximate capacity of 50,000 people.

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