Delhi witnessed heightened security on Friday ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ march at Connaught Place. Hours before the scheduled protest, Delhi Police reached the residence of CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke in Jhandewalan and served him a notice reportedly prohibiting the demonstration. According to Dipke, the notice accused him of attempting to reach Jantar Mantar and inciting violence, allegations he has denied. The police later left his residence after completing the formalities, while the exact contents of the notice were not officially disclosed.

The protest was called following the arrest of CJP leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, who were taken into judicial custody after waving the national flag at Jantar Mantar and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral irregularities. Ahead of the march, authorities deployed more than 6,000 Delhi Police personnel along with 220 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) across key locations, including Connaught Place, Rajiv Chowk, Jantar Mantar, and surrounding areas. Central Park was closed to the public, prohibitory orders remained in force, and commuters were advised to avoid major roads in central Delhi due to anticipated traffic restrictions.

Meanwhile, protests and political reactions continued across the country. In Mumbai, supporters gathered at Azad Maidan for the Tiranga rally, while student organisations in Patna also staged demonstrations demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner. The Press Council of India issued fresh safety guidelines for journalists covering protests, advising them to carry identification, first-aid kits, and follow emergency protocols. Several political leaders also weighed in on the developments, reflecting the growing national debate surrounding the protests, electoral revision process, and the government’s handling of demonstrations.