With Jantar Mantar fortified, how flash protests became new form of dissent

With Jantar Mantar fortified by security forces, protesters dispersed across the Capital, engaging in flash demonstrations throughout Saturday afternoon. Barricades, mass arrests, a heavy police presence, and travel restrictions hindered their ability to reach Jantar Mantar. Senior CJP leaders were detained early in the day, prompting the protesters to find alternative plans.

As the Central Delhi blockade became apparent, the All India Students' Association (AISA) president Neha Bora and other student activists initiated a march from INA at 1 pm, followed by senior advocate Prashant Bhushan and activist Yogendra Yadav. Demonstrators carried signs demanding the removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and the cancellation of Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

Police intercepted the group near INA Market-Dilli Haat, detaining them and transporting them to various police stations. Despite this, more protestors continued to arrive at Dilli Haat, raising slogans. A stand-off occurred at the Safdarjung flyover, where Bora and others were blocked by police. Despite this, demonstrators regrouped and resumed their journey toward Connaught Place.

However, they faced further barricades and confrontations with police, resulting in the arrest of around 50 protesters and their dispersal. In Connaught Place, several small protests emerged, with around 150 people assembling in the Outer Circle before being detained, and another group of 100 people gathering elsewhere and verbally protesting.

Gole Market and Sansad Marg saw flash protests by Students' Federation of India (SFI) activists attempting to breach barricades, leading to clashes with police and the arrest of about 30 individuals. On Shankar Road near Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, a smaller protest of around 20 protesters sat in the middle of the road, chanting slogans before being arrested by police.

Finally, a group of 50-70 protesters marched from Ghata Masjid Road to Rajghat, raising slogans against Modi's government and Gyanesh Kumar before being detained at a traffic signal.