New Delhi, Mar 26: Delhi police have ramped up security across the capital ahead of a planned Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) demonstration targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence on Tuesday. The protest is in response to the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal last week by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over allegations related to improprieties in the formulation of the excise policy.
Security has been heightened around Lok Kalyan Marg, where the PM lives, as well as metro stations in central Delhi. Entry and exit gates at Lok Kalyan Marg station have been shut down for the time being according to Delhi Metro. Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat stations have also imposed restrictions until further notice.
“We have strong security protocols in place at the PM’s home and Patel Chowk metro. Protests will not be allowed as usual metro operations should not be disturbed,” said Deputy Police Commissioner Devesh Kumar. Additional deployments of police and paramilitary forces have been made across the capital. Section 144 prohibitions on gathering are already imposed near Lok Kalyan Marg to maintain law and order.
Traffic diversions have also been established at seven points according to traffic police. “Commuters are advised to avoid Kemal Ataturk Marg, Safdarjung Road, Akbar Road and Teen Murti Marg due to the planned activity,” one officer mentioned.
AAP leader Gopal Rai had called for the “gherao” or surround of the PM’s residence as well as a nationwide mega protest over Kejriwal’s arrest last week. The ED considers Kejriwal the “kingpin” behind an alleged conspiracy in the excise policy rolled out in November 2021, which has since been withdrawn. However, Kejriwal denies any wrongdoing, accusing the central government of misusing agencies for political motives. Only time will tell if the tensions will escalate further.
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