Tiranga Rally Blocked In Delhi, CJP’s Abhijeet Dipke And AISA’s Neha Bora Detained

The planned “Lehra Do Tiranga” march in Delhi faced a police crackdown on Friday, with Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and All India Students’ Association (AISA) president Neha Bora detained ahead of the demonstration at Connaught Place. The day saw heavy security deployment, mass detentions and a fresh confrontation over the right to protest.

In a further development, a statement from Dipke’s side alleged that Delhi Police had taken him to an undisclosed location, that his associates had lost contact with him and that he was not being allowed to speak to lawyers. These allegations had not been independently confirmed, and clarification on his whereabouts and access to legal assistance was awaited.

Dipke was detained while heading towards Connaught Place after police served him a notice prohibiting the march, which was scheduled for 5 pm. Questioning the action, he asked, “What law have I broken?” Bora was detained near Mandi House while on her way to the protest. Police described the detentions as preventive measures to maintain law and order. Around 150 protesters were reportedly detained during the day.

Delhi witnessed an extensive security deployment, with reports citing more than 25,000 police and paramilitary personnel, alongside barricades, additional CCTV surveillance and traffic restrictions. Central Park was closed on October 16 and 17, with authorities citing prohibitory orders, the absence of permission and concerns over public safety and disruption.

Despite the restrictions, protesters carrying the national flag gathered at several points around Connaught Place, raising slogans as police dispersed groups. Estimates of the crowd varied across reports. Solidarity demonstrations were also reported in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Patna.

The Supreme Court declined to issue immediate directions over Central Park’s closure but raised concerns about the impact of protests and security restrictions on traders and daily-wage earners during the festive season. The bench indicated that compensation could be considered if businesses suffered unlawful and disproportionate disruption. The matter was listed for further consideration on October 26-27.