Delhi Cops' NSA Powers Extended as City Braces for CJP Protest

New Delhi:Ahead of a nationwide protest call by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), the Delhi Lieutenant Governor extended the Delhi Police’s preventive detention powers under the National Security Act till October 18, triggering political reactions amid the ongoing agitation.

Delhi Police said the extension was a routine quarterly administrative measure approved before the protests. The Union home ministry also extended the suspension of mobile Internet services within a 1.5-km radius of Jantar Mantar till midnight on Thursday, citing public safety. It was the fifth such order since July 17.

Police action against protesters drew criticism, with around 750 lawyers from Delhi and Mumbai condemning the use of force and restrictions on assemblies. They termed the measures an assault on constitutional rights and questioned curbs imposed after the Parliament march.

Investigations into the July 20 violence have widened, with police examining whether anti-social elements infiltrated the protests. Officials said 11 FIRs have been registered and around 80 videos are being analysed, including CCTV footage, drone recordings and mobile clips.

Police said statements from injured personnel form part of the probe. Some officers alleged they were attacked with stones, sticks and other objects during the clashes.

The Cyber Cell and Special Cell are analysing mobile tower data and forensic evidence to identify those involved.

Delhi Police rejected claims of an imminent crackdown on protesters, stating there was “no plan” to clear the protest site.

Meanwhile, protests and related campaigns gained traction on social media, with users amplifying demands for Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.

The measures and developments indicate heightened security and political tension in the capital ahead of the protest call.