Lessons from Jantar Mantar: Delhi Police chief orders intel revamp

Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar has ordered a revamp of the intelligence division to ensure a more comprehensive and actionable assessment of protest groups. Following the large turnout at Jantar Mantar and Connaught Place protests in July, which caught the police off guard, the commissioner is focusing on gathering 10 specific pieces of intelligence ahead of every planned demonstration.

The intelligence wing will now collect details such as the profile of participants, state-wise participation, modes of mobilisation, leaders' names, agenda or demands, places of stay and movement, local contacts and linkages, organizational affiliations, sources of funding, and logistical arrangements. This directive aims to improve police preparedness for protests and public gatherings, particularly those involving participants from outside Delhi or multiple organizations.