Delhi Police proposes 50,000-person cap, 7-hour limit for Ramlila Ground protests

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Nov 14, 2026: The Delhi Police has drawn up a fresh set of guidelines for protests, demonstrations, rallies and public meetings at the Ramlila Ground, proposing a maximum gathering of 50,000 people and restricting such events to a seven-hour window between 10 am and 5 pm.

Under the draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), organisers will have to submit applications at least 10 days before their proposed events. They will also be required to obtain a ‘venue availability certificate’ from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) before proceeding with their plans.

While the proposed SOP fixes the overall capacity of Ramlila Ground at 50,000, the final number of participants permitted at an individual event will be decided by the competent authority. The decision will take into account the nature of the gathering, the anticipated turnout and the security arrangements required.

Blocking Roads For Emergency Access Not Allowed

The guidelines also lay down conditions for managing public movement and maintaining law and order during demonstrations. Organisers will have to coordinate with the police on traffic regulation and parking arrangements, while blocking roads, footpaths or routes meant for emergency access will not be allowed.

The draft further prohibits participants from carrying weapons, inflammable materials or any other items banned under the law. Organisers will also need prior permission to deploy drones during an event.

The SOP has been forwarded to the Delhi Police Headquarters for approval. The proposed guidelines are expected to come into force once they receive the necessary clearance.

Why Delhi Police Is Revising Protest Rules

The move comes after the Delhi Police de-notified Jantar Mantar as a designated protest venue in October and identified three alternative locations for demonstrations – Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground.

The new SOP specifically lays down the conditions for holding gatherings at Ramlila Ground, including restrictions on crowd size, timings, advance applications and security arrangements.

The proposed framework is aimed at regulating events at the venue while addressing traffic management and public safety concerns.