In an unprecedented escalation of restrictions ahead of Saturday’s planned protest at Jantar Mantar, mobile internet services will be suspended across a four-kilometre radius in central Delhi for 24 hours, from 10 pm on October 9 to 10 pm on October 10. The shutdown comes as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) prepares to demonstrate against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
The suspension, approved by the Union Home Ministry, will cover the area around the Janpath–Kartavya Path intersection. According to reports, the order directs the suspension of all forms of mobile internet technology within the designated zone.
The move adds a digital blackout to an expanding list of security measures ahead of the demonstration, with restrictions affecting public transport and access to parts of the capital also being prepared.
Four-Kilometre Zone to Face Mobile Internet Shutdown
The restriction will remain in force from Friday night until Saturday night, covering a four-kilometre radius from the Janpath–Kartavya Path crossing. The order follows concerns about maintaining public order during the proposed protest.
The suspension is specifically directed at mobile internet services. It should not automatically be interpreted as a shutdown of every form of telecommunications or fixed-line broadband across Delhi.
The timing, however, means residents, commuters, businesses and visitors within the affected area could face difficulties accessing mobile data during the protest period.
CJP Protest to Go Ahead Amid Security Clampdown
The CJP has called for a demonstration at Jantar Mantar on October 10, demanding accountability from the Chief Election Commissioner over the SIR process and alleged “vote theft”.
Delhi Police has denied permission for the protest, citing insufficient advance notice, alleged non-compliance with directions during an earlier demonstration, and concerns over public safety, law and order and traffic management. Police have also warned of legal action against violations of preventive restrictions imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
The internet suspension now adds another layer to the restrictions surrounding the planned mobilisation. While authorities have cited public-order concerns, the measures are likely to affect people beyond those intending to join the demonstration.
The mobile internet blackout follows a series of transport-related measures announced ahead of the protest. Delhi Police has sought restrictions on entry and exit at 57 metro stations, while Indian Railways has cancelled several trains scheduled to arrive at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations during the anticipated congestion window.
