The Delhi Police has drafted a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to regulate protests, rallies, and public meetings at the historic Ramlila Ground. The proposed guidelines introduce a cap of 50,000 participants and restrict the timing of such events to a seven-hour window between 10 am and 5 pm.
According to the draft, which is currently under review at the Delhi Police Headquarters, the venue will function exclusively as a static site. Marches and processions originating from or associated with the ground are prohibited under the new rules. The move follows the police's decision in October to de-notify Jantar Mantar as a protest venue, subsequently designating Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground as alternative locations.
Organisers are required to submit applications to the Arrangement Cell of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central District) at least 10 days before their scheduled programme. Before applying to the police, they must obtain a 'Venue Availability Certificate' from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, which owns the grounds. While the overall capacity is set at 50,000, officials noted that the actual number of participants permitted for any individual event will be decided by the competent authority based on safety, turnout expectations, and available space.
The guidelines also mandate strict compliance with law and order. Participants may not carry weapons such as firearms, swords, or lathis, and the use of drones requires prior permission. Furthermore, organisers are responsible for ensuring that roads, footpaths, and emergency access routes remain unobstructed. The draft also outlines requirements for noise pollution compliance, sanitation, waste disposal, and the provision of basic amenities like drinking water and medical assistance for attendees.
Key facts
- The proposed capacity for events at Ramlila Ground is 50,000 people.
- Protests are restricted to a seven-hour window between 10 am and 5 pm.
- Applications must be submitted at least 10 days prior to the event.
- Organisers must secure a 'Venue Availability Certificate' from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.
- The use of drones at the site requires prior approval.
Why it matters
The implementation of this SOP is expected to centralise and regulate public demonstrations in the capital. Once the rules for Ramlila Ground are finalised, the Delhi Police intends to draft similar guidelines for the alternative sites at Burari Ground and CBD Ground to maintain public order and manage traffic flow.
Source: News18, Indian Express
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