Enhanced Security Measures in Delhi Amid NEET Protest

Increased Security in Delhi

In response to significant protests regarding alleged irregularities in NEET and other competitive exams, security measures in the national capital, Delhi, have been escalated to unprecedented levels. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has taken precautionary steps by closing 16 major metro stations, including Rajiv Chowk, until further notice. However, interchange facilities will remain operational at the affected stations for the convenience of passengers.

List of Closed Metro Stations

According to DMRC, the following stations are currently closed: Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Seva Tirth, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, and Shivaji Stadium.

Security Measures Intensified

This decision comes as authorities tighten security in central Delhi. In light of ongoing protests, restrictions have been heightened around Parliament and other critical locations.

Previous Closures and Protests

On Monday, several metro stations were also shut down due to a call for a march to Parliament by the 'Cockroach People's Party' (CJP), which drew thousands of participants to central Delhi.

Deployment of CRPF

Following the increase in security, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been deployed at key metro stations and routes leading to Parliament. CRPF personnel are stationed at metro stations in central Delhi and on roads leading to the Parliament complex to assist the Delhi police in maintaining law and order.

Additional CRPF Units Airlifted

Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs ordered the immediate deployment of 20 additional CRPF companies from West Bengal, which were airlifted to the national capital.

Ongoing CJP Protests at Jantar Mantar

Meanwhile, the CJP protesters continued their sit-in at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday. Supporters gathered overnight, providing food and supplies to volunteers. This movement against alleged irregularities in competitive exams has now entered its second month. In a post on X, CJP claimed, "Thousands of protesters are present at Jantar Mantar this morning," reiterating their demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

CJP's Stance

CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka stated that the protest will persist until Pradhan resigns. He emphasized, "We will not leave this place until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. July 20 marked a significant turning point in India's political history, especially post-independence. The youth will no longer remain silent."