Jantar Mantar denotification draws criticism from Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and activist Abhijeet Dipke over protest rights and democracy in Delhi.
The Jantar Mantar denotification decision has triggered criticism from Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke, who have raised concerns about the right to protest and freedom of dissent. The Delhi Police has removed Jantar Mantar from the list of designated venues for protests and demonstrations, announcing three alternative locations in the national capital.
Jairam Ramesh Criticises Jantar Mantar Denotification
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised the Jantar Mantar denotification in a post on X on Monday. He alleged that the decision reflected growing unease within the country’s top leadership over public demonstrations and peaceful protests.
Ramesh said the historic site had provided a regular platform for citizens to raise their voices and express dissent. He also accused the Prime Minister and Home Minister of responding harshly to peaceful public protests in recent days.
In his post, Ramesh argued that removing Jantar Mantar from the designated protest venues list would weaken an established space for democratic expression. His remarks framed the decision as a concern for the future of public demonstrations in India.
Abhijeet Dipke Questions the Decision
CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke also criticised the Jantar Mantar denotification, alleging that the move undermined citizens’ democratic rights. In a post on X, Dipke argued that the issue extended beyond the location of protests to the broader right of people to demonstrate against decisions and policies.
He claimed that restricting access to a recognised protest venue raised questions about the space available for citizens to express disagreement publicly. His comments added to the criticism surrounding the Delhi Police’s announcement.
The remarks by Ramesh and Dipke reflect concerns raised by critics over how the change could affect public demonstrations in the capital.
Delhi Police Names Three Alternative Protest Sites
According to an official notice, Jantar Mantar was de-notified on Monday as a designated venue for organising protests and demonstrations in Delhi. The Delhi Police has designated three alternative locations for such activities.
The newly designated protest venues are:
Ramlila Ground
Burari Ground
CBD Ground in East Delhi
The official notice stated that the decision followed recommendations made by a committee constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The committee was tasked with examining alternative locations where citizens could exercise their right to organise protests and demonstrations.
Why Was Jantar Mantar Removed from the List?
The Ministry of Home Affairs had set up the committee to assess alternative protest venues in place of the existing designated site. Based on the committee’s recommendations, Jantar Mantar was removed from the list of authorised protest locations, according to the official notice.
The Jantar Mantar denotification has sparked a debate over the relocation of demonstrations and the importance of accessible public spaces for civic participation. While the authorities have identified three alternative venues, critics have questioned the implications of removing a historically recognised protest site.
The issue has brought the balance between protest arrangements and citizens’ right to express dissent into focus. Further discussion is likely to centre on how the new venues will accommodate demonstrations and whether they provide suitable alternatives for people seeking to raise public concerns.