NEW DELHI: The Congress on Friday criticised the Centre over the heavy security deployment in Delhi ahead of a planned protest on October 10, alleging that the arrangements reflected the “fear and anxiety” of the Narendra Modi government.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said the deployment of a large number of security personnel in the national capital highlighted the government’s apprehensions. He made the remarks in a post on X, following four consecutive days of protests by INDIA bloc leaders and MPs.
More than 20,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed across Delhi ahead of the protest, a senior police officer said on Thursday.
Police said permission had not been granted for any protest at Jantar Mantar and urged the public not to participate in unauthorised gatherings. Security arrangements have been put in place as a precautionary measure to prevent any disturbance and ensure the smooth movement of people and vehicles.
Prohibitory orders are already in force in the area, officials said.
Police have also appealed to protesters and members of the public to refrain from violence and not attack personnel deployed on security duty. Security staff have been issued specific instructions on handling women protesters and have been told to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
Authorities have further cautioned the public against believing or circulating unverified information on social media and other platforms.
The planned protest comes amid heightened political tensions between the Congress-led INDIA bloc and the Centre over issues related to the Election Commission and electoral processes.
Clearly shows the level of panic and nervousness coming as it does after four days of unrelenting protests by the INDIA janbandhan
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) October 9, 2026
