Massive Opposition Rally Planned in Delhi Amid Security Preparations
Opposition Alliance Gathers for 'Chalo Dilli' Protest
Supporters gathering at multiple locations across the national capital on Sunday ahead of ‘Chalo Dilli’ protest (Photo: PTI)
New Delhi, Nov 1: On Sunday, supporters of the INDIA bloc assembled at various sites throughout the national capital in anticipation of the Opposition alliance's 'Chalo Dilli' protest. This demonstration aims to address alleged electoral misconduct and calls for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
To ensure safety and manage the crowd, over 4,000 police officers will be deployed.
Personnel from various police districts and the CAPF will be stationed along the route from Minto Bridge (Photo: PTI)
Supporters gathered at Ramlila Maidan, the designated rally site, while party members assembled at different locations before heading to the protest.
Workers from the Samajwadi Party met outside the residence of party leader Akhilesh Yadav, while Congress supporters convened near Himachal Bhawan.
Many participants arrived in Delhi on Sunday morning, with others having come in the previous days as parties mobilized their supporters from various states.
The march is set to commence from the Minto Road–Connaught Place junction at noon, concluding at Ramlila Maidan, where the INDIA bloc will host a rally.
Senior leaders from the alliance are expected to travel in open buses from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence to the starting point of the march.
On Saturday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi encouraged those heading to Delhi for the protest to support local businesses by shopping ahead of Diwali, Chhath, and Bhai Dooj. He emphasized that the Opposition's activities would not negatively impact local commerce. “While protesting, marching, and attending the rally, please consider doing a bit of shopping as well,” he stated in a video message shared on social media.
Extensive Preparations at Ramlila Maidan
Preparations at Ramlila Maidan include a large canopy featuring the Tricolour over the main stage for senior Opposition leaders, along with a second stage for representatives from various state units of the INDIA bloc.
Preparations ahead of opposition protest at Ramlila Maidan (Photo: PTI)
Numerous white canopy tents have been set up, metal barricades installed to manage movement, and temporary platforms constructed. Separate entry points and enclosures are being organized for different attendee categories.
Organizers have been instructed to deploy volunteers for crowd management, provide drinking water, and arrange separate restroom facilities for women.
Parking logistics are also being coordinated with traffic authorities. Overnight stays at the venue are prohibited.
The INDIA bloc anticipates a turnout of up to 1 million participants, while the Delhi Police estimates around 50,000 attendees.
Ramlila Maidan can accommodate approximately 45,000 to 50,000 individuals when empty. However, with seating, enclosures, and designated pathways, the estimated usable capacity is reduced to 30,000 to 40,000. Additional space outside the venue will be reserved to manage any overflow of attendees.
Security Measures in Place
Over 4,000 police personnel, along with companies from the Central Armed Police Forces, will be stationed along the march route and at the protest site for security and crowd control.
The area has been divided into 14 zones, each overseen by an officer of assistant commissioner rank. Surveillance will be enhanced with more than 200 CCTV cameras, drones, and body-worn cameras.
The security strategy also includes anti-riot vehicles and a dedicated control room. Personnel from various police districts and the CAPF will be positioned along the route from Minto Bridge and within the venue.
The police commissioner, along with senior officials, inspected the security arrangements at Minto Bridge and Ramlila Maidan on Saturday.
The rally has been authorized to take place between 10 am and 5 pm, with police and organizers estimating that 30,000 to 40,000 individuals can be accommodated comfortably, considering the enclosures and pathways.
Approximately 150 additional traffic personnel will manage vehicle movement. Special provisions have also been made to ensure uninterrupted access for ambulances to LNJP and GB Pant hospitals.
Additionally, the deployment of 270 CAPF companies in Delhi has been extended until November 16.