14 zones, 200 cameras, 3,500 police personnel: Delhi steps up security for INDIA bloc’s November 1 rally

Delhi Police has stepped up security around Ramlila Maidan ahead of the Congress-led INDIA bloc’s rally on November 1. Around 3,500 police personnel are expected to be deployed, while more than 200 CCTV cameras and other surveillance systems will help monitor the gathering.

According to news agency PTI, police are coordinating with rally organisers, traffic officials and other agencies to maintain law and order, manage traffic and ensure the event proceeds smoothly.

The Opposition rally is part of its campaign against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The alliance is demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Joint Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma said the venue would be divided into 14 zones, each supervised by an Assistant Commissioner of Police-rank officer. Two zones will be monitored by officers of Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police rank.

Besides the expected deployment of 3,500 personnel, 10 companies of reserve forces are being called in. Police officers will use body-worn cameras, while surveillance-equipped vehicles and control rooms will monitor the venue and nearby areas.

Opposition leaders have claimed that more than 10 lakh people could attend the rally. An estimated 15,000 to 20,000 buses, along with private vehicles carrying political leaders, may bring people to the Capital.

Delhi Police issued a no-objection certificate for the event on Friday.

The security arrangements come amid concerns from traders about possible traffic restrictions during the festive shopping season. The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has urged Rahul Gandhi to postpone the rally until after November 10, warning that restrictions could affect nearly 20 markets around Ramlila Maidan.

The rally falls shortly before Dhanteras on November 6 and Diwali on November 8, when commercial activity typically increases. Traders fear that barricades and diversions could make it difficult for customers to reach shops.

Gandhi, however, has indicated that the rally will go ahead. In a post on X, he said the protest could be stopped in “30 seconds” if Prime Minister Narendra Modi “sacked” Gyanesh Kumar.