Delhi Metro Update: 5 Key Stations Closed Amid Jantar Mantar Protests and Security Alerts
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has closed five key interchange and central stations until further notice, citing security reasons. The sudden closures coincide with the opening day of Parliament’s Monsoon Session and a massive planned protest march toward the Parliament complex.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has closed five key interchange and central stations until further notice, citing security reasons. The sudden closures coincide with the opening day of Parliament’s Monsoon Session and a massive planned protest march toward the Parliament complex. The affected stations include major transit hubs: Janpath, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, and Seva Teerth. While entry and exit points at these stations remain sealed to the public, DMRC officials have confirmed that interchange facilities at intersection points like Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat will continue to function normally, allowing passengers to switch lines without exiting the premises.
Delhi Metro Imposes Key Station Restrictions
The DMRC announced the service update via its official communication channels, stating that the station closures are a preventive measure directed by law enforcement. Passengers traveling along the Yellow, Blue, and Violet lines are advised to plan alternative routes or use neighboring operational stations to reach their destinations. Will Sonam Wangchuk End His Hunger Strike? Here's the Condition He Has Set for the Centre.
Commuters can monitor real-time updates through the official DMRC app or reach out to the 24/7 DMRC helpline (155370) for alternate transit options. Transit security has also been heightened inside the operational portions of the network, with Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Delhi Metro Police personnel conducting enhanced screenings.
Massive Police Deployment Blocks 'Chalo Sansad' March
Outside the transit network, Central Delhi has been transformed into a virtual fortress. The Delhi Police have deployed more than 2,000 personnel, along with 20 companies of paramilitary forces, to enforce strict security cordons. Specialized anti-riot units, including Vajra and Vikrant armored vehicles alongside Varun water cannons, have taken up positions across the New Delhi district.
Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)—formerly Section 144 of the CrPC—are strictly in effect, legally banning gatherings of four or more people, unauthorized rallies, or marches in the vicinity of Parliament House. Sonam Wangchuk's Blood Parameters Shown Minor Improvement but Require Close Monitoring: Safdarjung Hospital.
DMRC Restricts Access to 5 Major Stations Over Jantar Mantar Protest March
Service Update
Due to Security reason, Janpath, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat and Seva Teerth metro stations have been closed till further instructions.
— Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) July 20, 2026
Tensions Flaring at Jantar Mantar Over Exam Protests
The severe security crackdown follows an escalation at Jantar Mantar, where members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and independent student groups have been demonstrating since June 6 over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in national examinations like the NEET-UG.
The agitation intensified following the dramatic removal of climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk from the protest site on Saturday morning. Wangchuk, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike for over three weeks in solidarity with the students, was forcibly moved by police to Safdarjung Hospital following expert medical advice regarding his deteriorating health.
Despite his hospitalization and subsequent orders from the Delhi High Court urging cooperation with medical professionals, CJP organizers and student groups vowed to press ahead with their proposed "Chalo Sansad" (March to Parliament) rally.
Police officials have explicitly warned that no formal permission was requested or approved for the march, making any attempt to cross the heavy metal barricades an illegal assembly subject to immediate detention. Commuters and pedestrians in Central Delhi are urged to anticipate heavy traffic diversions and delayed transit times throughout the day.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 20, 2026 09:27 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
