Why Security Was Heightened Outside Parliament Street Police Station Amid Protests

In New Delhi, security was significantly heightened outside the Parliament Street police station as supporters of detained Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj gathered to protest. Bhardwaj's detention followed allegations of assault during a protest in July. The police have implemented extensive security measures, including barricades and paramilitary personnel, in anticipation of potential unrest. This situation escalated after Bhardwaj's controversial statements regarding the incident, leading to public outcry and demands for further legal action against him. The unfolding events highlight the tensions surrounding the case and the response from law enforcement.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 5, 2026, 14:06 IST

Increased Security Measures in New Delhi

Security measures were significantly enhanced outside the Parliament Street police station on Saturday, as barricades were erected and paramilitary forces were deployed. This action was taken in response to a gathering of supporters for Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj, who was recently detained, according to a police officer.

The heightened security came after Bhardwaj was apprehended in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, linked to an alleged attack on the father of a minor activist during a protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar in July.

Multiple police teams were dispatched to locate Bhardwaj, who was detained on Friday, shortly after CJP representatives met with police officials to demand his arrest.

A senior police official confirmed that comprehensive security measures were implemented outside the police station due to the anticipated gathering.

Barricades were strategically positioned around the police station, and paramilitary personnel were deployed as a precautionary step, as stated by officials.

On Friday, the Delhi Police also included provisions of the SCST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and charges of criminal intimidation in the FIR against Bhardwaj concerning the alleged assault.

Additionally, a new FIR was filed under the POCSO Act following a complaint from the minor activist, alleging online threats and harassment. This case also invokes sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act.

These developments followed public outrage after Bhardwaj claimed in an interview that he had injured the minor activist's father during the protest on July 20. He later asserted in a podcast that his actions were in self-defense.

The Delhi Police previously indicated that the injuries sustained by Sanjay Kumar were minor and resulted from a steel bracelet.

The CJP had protested outside the Parliament Street police station on Friday, demanding action against Bhardwaj and requesting the inclusion of charges such as attempted murder, criminal intimidation, and provisions of the SCST Act.