BREAKING: Delhi Police Denotifies Jantar Mantar As Designated Protest Site After Supreme Court Push

The Delhi Police has denotified Jantar Mantar as a designated site for protests and demonstrations, post the Supreme Court's recent push to make alternative arrangements for public protests in the national capital.

The police have identified three alternative venues for demonstrations: Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in East Delhi.

The decision follows recommendations made by a committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to identify suitable locations for public gatherings.

"Based on the Committee’s recommendations, Jantar Mantar as a protest venue has been de-notified. Three new venues viz Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground, East Delhi have been designated as new venues for organizing protest/demonstrations...Detailed and revised SOP for organizing protest/ demonstrations at these three venues will be issued separately..," a standing order issued on October 11, 2026 states.

Jantar Mantar has historically served as one of the capital's most prominent protest venues, attracting political parties, civil society groups, students and activists seeking to draw public attention to their demands.

The move comes amid heightened tensions over demonstrations in Delhi in recent days, including protests linked to demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Police had tightened security around Jantar Mantar and other parts of central Delhi during the recent demonstrations.

In August the Supreme Court had issued notice in a plea contending that Delhi's Jantar Mantar is no longer a suitable venue for public protests due to safety and logistical concerns. "It has been stated in the plea that Jantar Mantar is not a proper site anymore for protests due to ingress, outgress issues. Supply of medical essentials etc. I think this is important... Please take instructions, Mr. Solicitor. Issue notice and list this separately," CJI Surya Kant led bench had ordered.

Court was further told that directions are required to ensure clashes similar to the ones that took place during recent protests, particularly amid the July 20 'Sansad Chalo' march do not recur. The bench was further informed that AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal has recently called for a similar demonstration.

Jantar Mantar in July had witnessed massive protests against the NEET-UG paper leak. The protest, led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, saw a sea of students and even their families protesting against the irregularities in the exam system and the NEET paper leak.

The PIL argued that Jantar Mantar is ill-equipped to handle the volume and needs of modern public demonstrations. The petitioner asserted that the site lacks essential amenities—including sanitation, water, and basic shelter—required to accommodate individuals who often spend days or weeks in protest.