New Delhi: Several Metro stations in central Delhi remained closed on Wednesday morning as authorities tightened security amid the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar over alleged examination irregularities.
In a statement posted on X, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said stations including Janpath, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat had been closed until further instructions due to security reasons. However, interchange facilities remained available at Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat.
Several stations affected
Apart from the four stations mentioned by the DMRC, several other Metro stations were also closed or affected, including Lok Kalyan Marg, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhambha Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Mandi House, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh and Shivaji Stadium.
The restrictions come after heightened security arrangements following the CJP’s “Sansad Chalo” march earlier this week.
Protest enters second month
Protesters continued their sit-in at Jantar Mantar, with more supporters joining the demonstration overnight. Volunteers at the site received food and essential supplies from sympathisers as the agitation entered its second month.
CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka reiterated that the protest would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. Meanwhile, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke clarified that the organisation had not called for gatherings anywhere other than Jantar Mantar and urged supporters to maintain a peaceful protest.
The movement, which began on June 20, is demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities, reforms to India’s education system and action against those responsible.
Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike since joining the protest on June 28, continues his fast from Medanta Hospital after being shifted there following a Delhi High Court order.