On July 24, 2026, Delhi’s iconic Jantar Mantar remained a flashpoint as thousands of demonstrators occupied the stretch of Sansad Marg despite police barricades and a full internet suspension. The protest, led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has now entered its fifth week.

Following minor confrontations last night, security forces intensified their presence on Thursday and invoked the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024, extending the blackout until midnight. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke accused BJP‑linked goons of infiltrating the crowd and hurling stones to tarnish the movement’s image.

CJP volunteers responded by forming a human chain separating protesters from police, while officers reported no major incidents so far. “We have been here since last night and throughout the day too. There has been no untoward incident today,” a police officer said.

Historical Background

Jantar Mantar has been a historic site for public dissent since the 1980s, hosting major anti‑corruption rallies, student movements, and now the latest wave of climate‑justice and civic protests. Its open‑air arena makes it a natural gathering point for mass mobilisations.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that despite the internet blackout and the shutdown of 16 metro stations, the protest’s momentum is only growing, underscoring the resilience of grassroots activism and the widening gap between governmental control and public dissent.

"Shutting down the internet cannot silence a movement; the real pressure points appear on the streets," political analyst Dr. Ravi Singh noted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long will the internet shutdown last?
A: The current order extends the suspension until 12 a.m. Thursday, with officials hinting at further extensions.

Q2: Are students allowed to reach the protest site?
A: Section 144 (now Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita) restricts autorickshaw transport for students, but they can still walk the remaining distance.