Central Park shut for two days; Delhi Police impose prohibitory orders around Connaught Place

New Delhi: Central Park has been closed for two days and prohibitory orders remain in force around Connaught Place, with the Delhi Police cautioning people against unlawful assemblies in the area on Friday.

In a video message issued on Thursday, Deputy Commissioner of Police Neha Yadav said prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) had been imposed in and around Connaught Place in view of a call for people to gather at Central Park on October 16 at 5 p.m. while carrying the national flag.

The police said the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had appealed to their workers, supporters and the general public to join the protest in large numbers.

The prohibitory order has been issued to maintain peace and order and ensure the safety of lives as well as public and private property in the area.

Appealing to protesters and the public, the Delhi Police said no one should take part in any gathering that violates the order currently in force. Appropriate legal action will be taken against those found violating it.

The police said the aim was to ensure that no situation arose that could disrupt the operations of traders and shopkeepers in the area.

However, the force said it may consider facilitating a designated and suitable location for a select group of people to gather for the purpose of carrying the national flag and singing the national anthem, provided the prescribed guidelines are followed and full respect, dignity and decorum are maintained towards the Tricolour and the national anthem.

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has informed the Delhi Police that Central Park will remain closed on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons.

The civic body has also requested appropriate security arrangements to prevent unauthorised entry into the park.

The Delhi Police once again appealed to everyone to maintain peace and order.

Trade and market associations in and around Connaught Place have sought protection for their shops and establishments against disruptive elements and unlawful assemblies.

According to the police, the associations said such activities, particularly during the festive season, were adversely affecting their businesses.

The Delhi High Court has taken note of concerns over potential disruptions to commercial activities in the area, and the Delhi Police has assured that suitable measures will be taken to address them.

(Inputs from IANS)