Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar has defended the restrictions imposed during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest on October 10, telling the Supreme Court that the police acted on intelligence inputs to prevent a serious law and order situation in the national capital.
In an affidavit submitted in contempt proceedings, Kumar maintained that the police measures, including the regulation of Delhi Metro services, were necessary to maintain public order. He also tendered an unconditional and unqualified apology to the Supreme Court.
The affidavit was filed in connection with allegations that the authorities violated the Supreme Court’s direction against imposing a complete prohibition on Metro and train services during the October 10 protest.
Police Action Based on Intelligence Inputs
Explaining the circumstances behind the restrictions, Kumar stated that the police administration had assessed intelligence reports and the changing situation on the ground before introducing preventive measures.
He maintained that the steps taken by the authorities were timely, proportionate and lawful, and had helped prevent a major disturbance in Delhi.
The commissioner also emphasised that maintaining public order in the national capital required particular caution because of its sensitivities.
Referring to the CJP’s record, the affidavit stated that the organisation had previously been associated with mob violence, damage to public and private property, and incidents causing injuries to several people.
Kumar also referred to developments on October 6, 7 and 8 while explaining the circumstances that influenced the police response.
According to the commissioner, the administration could not risk a breakdown of public order when an organisation with such a history had called for protests.
He further alleged that attempts were being made to present a misleading account of the police action despite the administration’s genuine efforts to maintain peace.
Supreme Court Had Found Prima Facie Case
The contempt proceedings arose after petitioners approached the Supreme Court alleging that its directions concerning Metro and train services had not been followed.
On October 11, the Supreme Court observed that the petitioners had established a prima facie case regarding the alleged violation of its order.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi subsequently issued notices to Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) Chairperson D Thara.
The matter is scheduled to be heard by the Bench on Thursday.
Protest Called Over Alleged Electoral Irregularities
The controversy stems from the CJP’s October 10 protest call demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in elections.
Ahead of the demonstration, the police administration introduced preventive measures, including restrictions affecting Metro services.
While the petitioners have questioned whether these measures violated the Supreme Court’s directions, the police commissioner has maintained that the decisions were taken to prevent violence and protect public order in Delhi.
