Sixteen Delhi Metro stations remained closed for passenger entry and exit on Thursday as authorities stepped up security across the national capital following violence linked to the Jantar Mantar protest and fresh clashes reported on Wednesday night.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said stations including Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat have been shut as a precautionary measure. However, commuters can continue to use interchange facilities at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat to switch between Metro lines.
The affected stations are:
- Lok Kalyan Marg
- Rajiv Chowk
- Patel Chowk
- Ramakrishna Ashram Marg
- Barakhambha Road
- Supreme Court
- Seva Teerth
- Janpath
- Mandi House
- Central Secretariat
- ITO
- Delhi Gate
- Indraprastha
- Khan Market
- Jor Bagh
- Shivaji Stadium
The restrictions follow violence during the July 20 protest, when supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), along with students, marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leak.
The demonstrations drew students, activists and opposition leaders seeking accountability in the education system. Delhi Police said security has been strengthened in sensitive areas and assured a thorough investigation into the violence.
Fresh unrest was reported on Wednesday evening near Tolstoy Marg in the Connaught Place area. According to police, a group of miscreants allegedly hurled stones and bottles at security personnel at around 8.30 pm.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Connaught Place) Vivek Bhagat sustained injuries in the incident, police said.