NEW DELHI: Security has been heightened at Prime Minister Narendra Modiโs residence in Delhi following a call by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for a protest. The move comes in response to the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, prompting the imposition of Section 144 (of the CrPC) around the PMโs residence.
The Delhi Police have bolstered security measures across various areas in the national capital. A Delhi Traffic Police official cautioned of potential disruptions in traffic movement in New Delhi and Central Delhi due to ongoing protests. Police officials emphasised robust security arrangements to maintain law and order, reiterating that protests are not permitted under Section 144.
ALSO READ: Arrest of Delhi CM is disgrace for democracy: Omar Abdullah
Amid AAPโs planned protest, announcements were made outside the Patel Chowk Metro station, informing protestors about the imposed Section 144 and the need to disperse promptly. The intensified security measures coincide with AAPโs intended demonstration, expressing dissatisfaction over Kejriwalโs arrest in a liquor policy case.
The Delhi Police issued traffic advisories, restricting vehicle parking on specific roads and closing certain metro stations due to security concerns. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Devesh Kumar Mahla, assured adequate security deployment in key areas to maintain public safety.
ALSO READ: Kerala government petitions Supreme Court over indefinitely stalled bills
AAPโs decision to gherao the PMโs residence underscores their protest against Kejriwalโs arrest and their stance against the central government and investigating agencies. Additionally, AAP supporters have shown solidarity with Kejriwal on social media platforms, changing their profile pictures to images depicting him behind bars.
Kejriwalโs arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21, in connection with a money-laundering case linked to the excise policy, has sparked political tensions. ED alleges Kejriwalโs involvement in soliciting kickbacks, while AAP maintains his innocence, attributing his arrest to political motives ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.
