Jantar Mantar’s changing place in Delhi’s protest map

For decades, Jantar Mantar served as a hub for protests within earshot of Parliament. However, the government has designated three new venues as protest sites: Ramlila Maidan in central Delhi, Burari ground in the north, and CBD ground in Shahdara. The decision followed recommendations from a committee set up by the Ministry of Home Affairs to identify suitable locations for citizens to exercise their right to protest.

Jantar Mantar, despite being a historic astronomical observatory, was never a suitable protest venue as it was hemmed in by bungalows and shops. The road offered limited space, but crowds managed to find room, as seen during the 2011 India Against Corruption movement. However, shifting protests to the new sites should reduce traffic congestion, as Jantar Mantar Road is far from Parliament and offers practical amenities like water, inexpensive food, toilets, and tree shade.

The biggest advantage of the new sites may be that they are free to use, while Ramlila Maidan, Burari, and CBD grounds come with a cost.

The Supreme Court instructed authorities to designate a suitable alternative venue for protests during a hearing on October 9. The court emphasized the need for basic amenities like water, toilets, and healthcare facilities. Police sources noted that a crowd of over 1,000 at Jantar Mantar leads to crowding and traffic congestion, and the presence of sensitive installations in the vicinity poses a security concern.

Ramlila Maidan can accommodate up to 50,000 people, Burari ground can hold more than 50,000, and CBD Ground spans 12 acres. Organizers must apply for permission at Jantar Mantar 10-12 days in advance, after which the police coordinate with them on turnout, venue requirements, timings, VIP attendance, and the agenda. With malls, banquet halls, and other commercial facilities nearby, managing the venue and traffic will be crucial at the Shahdara site.