Delhi Police has sought an extension of the deployment of 273 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in the national capital until October 20, citing the possibility of further protests and potential law-and-order challenges.
In a letter dated October 12, 2026, addressed to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Office of the Special Commissioner of Police, Operations, requested that the deployment be extended beyond its scheduled end date to maintain security across Delhi.
According to police sources, the request comes amid concerns over possible demonstrations by activists associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and other organisations demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Police Flag Sensitive Locations
The letter reportedly identifies Jantar Mantar, the Election Commission of India headquarters, Parliament House and India Gate as locations where protesters could assemble.
Police have also flagged the possibility of demonstrations involving the Bhim Army, student organisations and other political groups.
The protests are linked to allegations of irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Opposition parties and activists have raised concerns over the exercise, while the Election Commission has defended its decisions.
Delhi Police said the possibility of large gatherings at sensitive locations could create law-and-order challenges requiring additional security personnel and rapid mobilisation.
301 CAPF Companies Approved
According to sources, the MHA had approved the deployment of 301 CAPF companies in Delhi. Of these, 221 companies were sanctioned on October 6, while another 80 were approved on October 8.
However, 28 of the additional 80 companies had not reported to Delhi Police as of Monday, the sources said.
The police have requested an extension specifically for 273 of the 301 companies until October 20 to ensure sufficient personnel are available to respond to any escalation.
Protests Against Chief Election Commissioner
The request follows several days of demonstrations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the SIR exercise.
Over the weekend, Delhi witnessed a heavy security deployment, restrictions at Metro stations and intensified checks at the city’s borders. Several protesters, including political leaders and activists, were detained during the demonstrations.
Delhi Police said adequate CAPF deployment was necessary to respond quickly to potential law-and-order situations and maintain security at key locations.
The letter seeks an extension of the deployment. It does not confirm whether the Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the request.
