Security beefed up outside PM’s residence and metro stations in response to AAP’s protest announcement

New Delhi, March 26 (IANS) – The Delhi Police have increased security outside the Prime Minister’s residence and nearby metro stations ahead of a protest planned by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday. The AAP has not been granted permission to hold the protest.

“We have deployed layers of security to maintain law and order in the area and no permission has been given to the AAP to hold the protest,” said a senior police official.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced the closure of entry/exit at Lok Kalyan Marg, Patel Chowk, and Central Secretariat Metro stations for security reasons.

“Large number of security personnel, including paramilitary forces, were seen deployed at Patel chowk after a call was given by AAP to gather here before the march,” said the police official.

Commuters are advised by the Delhi Traffic Police to avoid routes such as Kemal Ataturk Marg, Safdarjung Road, Akbar Road, and Teen Murti Marg. They are encouraged to use public transport and plan their travel accordingly.

AAP Minister Gopal Rai announced the party’s plan to stage a ‘gherao’ at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence on Tuesday, protesting against the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Arvind Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 and remanded to ED custody until March 28. He faces allegations of involvement in an excise policy scam and accepting kickbacks from liquor businessmen. Kejriwal denies the accusations and alleges political motives behind the investigation.

The ED has labeled Kejriwal as the “kingpin and key conspirator” in the alleged excise policy scam involving AAP officials and others. A ‘mega protest’ is also scheduled nationwide by the AAP.

The security measures and traffic advisories are in place to ensure the safety of the public and maintain order during the protest and potential disruptions in the city.

–IANS
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