The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Wednesday closed 16 metro stations across the national capital until further notice as security arrangements were intensified in view of the continuing protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations. While entry and exit at these stations have been suspended, the DMRC clarified that interchange facilities will remain operational, allowing passengers to switch metro lines where applicable without exiting the stations.
The move comes as authorities strengthen security across central Delhi, particularly around Parliament, government offices, and other sensitive locations, to prevent any disruption to law and order. Commuters have been advised to check travel updates before beginning their journey, as restrictions are expected to remain in place until further notice.
According to the DMRC, the following metro stations have been closed for passenger entry and exit:
The closures affect several key transit hubs in central Delhi, including Rajiv Chowk and Mandi House, which are among the busiest stations in the metro network. However, commuters can continue to use interchange facilities where available.
The station closures coincide with heightened security measures around Parliament and adjoining areas. Authorities have tightened movement in central Delhi following large-scale demonstrations called over alleged examination irregularities.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been deployed at major metro stations and along roads leading to the Parliament complex to support the Delhi Police in maintaining law and order. Security personnel have also been stationed at other sensitive locations to regulate crowds and monitor movement.
Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs directed the immediate deployment of 20 additional companies of the CRPF to Delhi. These personnel were airlifted from West Bengal to reinforce security arrangements amid the ongoing protests.
Officials said the deployment is part of a broader strategy to ensure public safety and prevent any untoward incidents in the national capital.
Meanwhile, supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) continued their sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday, with more demonstrators joining the agitation overnight. Volunteers at the protest site continued to receive food and essential supplies from supporters as the movement entered its second month.
In a post on social media platform X, the CJP claimed that thousands of protesters had gathered at Jantar Mantar and reiterated its demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged examination irregularities.
The party also questioned the government's handling of the issue, stating that the concerns of students and job aspirants should be addressed without delay.
CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka asserted that the protest would continue until the Education Minister stepped down. He described the ongoing movement as a significant moment in India's political landscape and said that the youth of the country would continue their agitation until their demands were met.
With security restrictions in force across central Delhi, authorities have appealed to commuters and residents to cooperate with security personnel and follow official advisories. Passengers using the Delhi Metro have been urged to plan their travel accordingly and stay updated through official DMRC announcements as the situation evolves.
The developments underscore the continuing impact of the prolonged protest, which has prompted extensive security arrangements and temporary restrictions in parts of the national capital.
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