Security arrangements have been heightened across central Delhi on Monday, 12 October 2026, as INDIA bloc Opposition parties prepare to march from Connaught Place to the Supreme Court, protesting alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demanding action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The demonstration marks a significant escalation in the Opposition's sustained campaign against the SIR process.

Opposition Gathers at AICC Headquarters

Congress workers assembled at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters on Monday morning, raising slogans against the Chief Election Commissioner ahead of the planned march. The protest is part of the INDIA bloc's continuing campaign challenging the legitimacy and conduct of the SIR — an exercise critics argue has been used to manipulate voter rolls ahead of elections.

Congress MP Karamvir Singh Boudh, speaking about the planned march, said the demonstration was aimed at safeguarding the Constitution and seeking judicial intervention over the concerns raised by the Opposition. 'All workers are coming to Delhi today to save the Constitution of the country. The Chief Justice is the guardian of the Constitution, and the Supreme Court is considered to be under his authority. It is his duty, along with the Supreme Court, to look into any instance where the Constitution is being disregarded, or actions are being taken against its provisions,' Boudh said.

Traffic Disruptions Across Central Delhi

In anticipation of a large turnout, the Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory warning commuters of possible disruptions across New Delhi and central Delhi from 6 am on Monday. Restrictions or diversions are expected at around 30 locations to manage traffic and maintain security during the demonstration.

Several major roads and intersections are likely to be affected, including the Dhaula Kuan flyover, Jhandewalan, Patel Chowk, Panchkuian, Connaught Place, Mandi House, Lodhi Road flyover, Bhikaji Cama Place, and Moti Bagh flyover. Stretches including Jantar Mantar Road, Ashoka Road, Sansad Marg, and Tolstoy Marg may also face delays.

Commuters travelling to railway stations, inter-state bus terminals, and the airport have been advised to set aside additional travel time and avoid unnecessary journeys through affected areas.

Security Deployment at Jantar Mantar

Heavy security deployment has continued around Jantar Mantar, the designated protest site in the capital. Barricades were seen blocking access roads to the area as early as Sunday, with police personnel stationed at key intersections to regulate movement and prevent unauthorised gatherings. This is the latest in a series of large Opposition demonstrations in the capital centred on electoral integrity concerns.

What the SIR Row Is About

The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls has been a flashpoint between the ruling dispensation and the Opposition, with INDIA bloc parties alleging that the exercise is being conducted in a manner that disenfranchises certain voter groups. The Opposition has called for the Supreme Court's intervention, arguing that the Election Commission of India has not addressed their grievances adequately. Critics argue that the SIR, if conducted without sufficient transparency, could distort the composition of voter rolls ahead of upcoming elections.

All eyes are now on whether the Supreme Court will take up the Opposition's petition and what the Election Commission's formal response to the march's demands will be.