Delhi Police Detain 100 With Criminal Records Before Protest

Synopsis

Delhi Police conducted an overnight arrest operation in all 15 districts ahead of the protest by CJP at Jantar Mantar, arresting those with criminal records. The Hindu quoted police sources to say that at least 100 were arrested while early reports from the PTI suggest that 30 to 40 persons were arrested. The steps were taken to ensure public order and police surveillance has been increased outside the homes of those who can mobilise others, police said.

Delhi Police had overnight arrested persons with criminal records from all 15 districts of the capital ahead of a protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar. According to police sources, the action was "as precautionary measure" to maintain law and order.

How many were held

The number varied from night to night. According to an early report, the number was 30 to 40 people. At least 100 people were rounded up in raids in 15 districts, one witness said, and they were suspected of being planning to “sabotage” or “escalate” the protest. Media reports say earlier reported about 400 suspects arrested in Delhi overnight. The official count is not available in the reports checked.

Police had also been monitoring those who may be able to rally others to participate in the protest and surveillance had been stepped up outside their homes, the source added.

The broader array of security measures

Over 25,000 security personnel were deployed and Section 163 of the BNSS was enforced in the New Delhi area, police said. Internet connectivity was cut in parts of central Delhi and metro and rail services limited.

The party’s response

The CJP has termed the day as a "crackdown" on the detentions. Its founder and two top officials were arrested on arrival at the airport, it said. The detentions were meant to stop people from congregating at an illegal location, police have said.