Students and activists have been detained in Delhi and Lucknow ahead of a planned protest at Jantar Mantar on October 10, as police step up security and restrictions across the national capital.
The proposed demonstration, organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and supported by student and civil society groups, demands the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and opposes the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Delhi Police have denied permission for the protest, citing the requirement for 10 days’ advance notice and alleged violations of conditions during an earlier demonstration. Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which allows authorities to impose restrictions to prevent potential disturbances, is in force in parts of central Delhi.
Student Detained at Jamia Police Station
The Fraternity Movement said its general secretary, Alfauz Azmi, had been detained as a “precautionary measure” ahead of Saturday’s protest. The organisation described the alleged detention as “a blatant attempt to suppress democratic dissent”.
SHAMEFUL!
The detention of Fraternity Movement General Secretary Alfauz Azmi by Delhi Police as a precaution ahead of tomorrow's protest at Jantar Mantar is a blatant attempt to suppress democratic dissent.#ReleaseAlfauz #ChaloJantarMantar#ArrestGyaneshKumar pic.twitter.com/xfF32XGx1G— Fraternity Movement (@Fraternity_movt) October 9, 2026Also ReadINDIA Bloc Meets President Murmu, Seeks Removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar Over ‘Vote Chori’ Claims
In Lucknow, police detained Lucknow University student Shubham Kharwar on Friday evening while he was preparing to travel to Delhi to attend the demonstration, The Times of India reported. Reports also said a student protest in the Uttar Pradesh capital was disrupted as students and activists demanded the withdrawal of the SIR exercise and Kumar’s resignation.
Separately, activist Aasif Mujtaba said on social media that he had received a call from the Delhi Police Special Branch asking whether he planned to attend the Jantar Mantar protest.
Mujtaba questioned why authorities were contacting people ahead of a demonstration, describing the calls as a sign of anxiety among those in power.
Police Appeal Through Mosque in Old Delhi
In another development, reports from Old Delhi said a police officer visited a mosque and appealed to residents not to participate in the October 10 demonstration.
According to a social media post describing the incident, the officer asked people to advise their family members against joining what he called an unnecessary crowd or protest, saying the administration was carrying out its duties.
The incident prompted criticism over the use of a mosque and its loudspeaker to convey a police appeal against participation in a protest. The criticism highlighted the contrast between objections often raised by authorities over mosque loudspeakers and their use to communicate administrative messages.
There were also reports that several printers in Delhi had refused to print posters and other material for the demonstration, allegedly citing pressure from the police. These claims could not be independently verified.
Metro and Train Services Face Restrictions
Delhi is preparing for extensive security arrangements ahead of the planned protest. Reports said entry and exit gates at 57 metro stations were scheduled to be closed from 9 pm on Friday, October 9, with possible reductions in train frequency.
The stations listed in advisories include Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, New Delhi, Patel Chowk, Janpath, Mandi House, ITO, Delhi Gate, Kashmere Gate, Hauz Khas and Lajpat Nagar.
Rail services have also been affected. Reports said 61 Delhi-bound trains were cancelled across Friday and Saturday, including services scheduled to arrive at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin between 4 am and 2 pm on Saturday. Passengers were advised to check their train status before travelling.
More Than 23,000 Security Personnel to Be Deployed
According to reports, more than 23,000 Central Armed Police Forces personnel are being deployed in the capital as part of the security arrangements. The Union Home Ministry reportedly approved the deployment of 221 CAPF companies between October 8 and 12, in addition to 110 companies provided to Delhi Police.
Authorities are also planning multi-layered barricading and surveillance through CCTV and facial recognition systems. Neighbouring states, including Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, have reportedly been asked to remain alert.
The restrictions come amid growing Opposition protests over the SIR exercise and allegations of electoral irregularities. Opposition parties have demanded greater transparency in electoral roll revisions and Kumar’s resignation. The Election Commission has rejected allegations of wrongdoing in its functioning.
