Delhi Police told AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal to refrain from circulating unverified claims about a crackdown at Jantar Mantar. The warning followed Kejriwal’s tweet highlighting heavy security, ambulance presence, and early shop closures in Connaught Place.
Key Takeaways
- Police label Kejriwal’s statements as misleading.
- All shops in Connaught Place ordered to close by 6:30 PM on July 23.
- Student protests continue; 16 metro stations temporarily shut.
On Thursday, Delhi Police used its official X account to state unequivocally that there is no plan to crack down on the ongoing Jantar Mantar protest. Officers urged Kejriwal to avoid spreading "misleading" or "unverified" information.
Kejriwal’s Tweet and Police Reaction
In an X post, Kejriwal wrote, "Orders to close all shops in Connaught Place by 6:30 PM this evening. Intense security. Piles of ambulances. Will the Modi government once again brutally attack its own children at Jantar Mantar today?" The police promptly replied, "There is no such plan. Please do not circulate false information."
NDTA’s Emergency Advisory
The New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) issued an urgent circular directing every shop, office and restaurant in Connaught Place to shut by 6:30 PM on July 23, citing a "critical situation" after telephonic advice from the NDMC Chairman and Vice‑Chairman.
Student Protests and Metro Closures
Amid the ongoing youth protests led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) over the NEET paper‑leak controversy, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced the temporary closure of 16 stations from 7:30 AM onward. Affected stations include Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, and others.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the clash between political rhetoric and law‑enforcement messaging can amplify public anxiety, especially during high‑stakes student protests. The police’s swift denial aims to curb misinformation that could otherwise trigger wider unrest.
"Accurate information is the backbone of democracy; misinformation endangers public peace," says security analyst Dr. Ravi Sharma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an actual police plan to crack down on protesters?
A: No. Delhi Police explicitly stated that no such plan exists.
Q: Why were shops in Connaught Place ordered to close?
A: The closure was a precautionary measure to prevent crowding and potential unrest amid heightened security.