Police and security personnel stand guard during a protest organised by Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at the Jantar Mantar, in New Delhi, early Thursday, July 23, 2026.

| Photo Credit:

Karma Bhutia

A heavy security blanket descended over central Delhi on Thursday as authorities stepped up measures to contain the fallout of the ongoing protests by Cockroach Janta Party, with large contingents of Delhi Police and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed across key locations, internet services suspended around the protest site and major commercial establishments asked to shut early.Internet services were suspended in Jantar Mantar, where protesters have been demonstrating, with the restrictions extending to Sansad Marg and parts of central Delhi. Protesters alleged that mobile networks became inaccessible on entering the protest sites, making communication difficult. The shutdown follows suspension of internet services on Wednesday night after clashes were reported between police and protesters at Sansad Marg.Precautionary measuresThe heightened security was accompanied by unprecedented precautionary measures across the city centre. The New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA), citing directions conveyed by the NDMC Chairman and Vice-Chairman, issued an advisory asking all shops, offices and restaurants in Connaught Place to close by 6.30 pm on Thursday in view of the “critical situation” in the area. The advisory urged establishments to comply to avoid “any unpleasant situation” and prevent loss of property or injury.The restrictions came even as access to central Delhi remained severely disrupted. Seventeen Delhi Metro stations continued to remain closed for the second consecutive day, affecting thousands of commuters and forcing diversions across the city. With security forces maintaining a strong presence around Parliament Street, Jantar Mantar and adjoining areas, the national capital witnessed one of its most extensive security deployments in recent months as authorities sought to prevent any escalation of the protests.Published on July 23, 2026