Delhi Police has proposed a fresh set of guidelines to regulate protests, demonstrations and public programmes at Ramlila Maidan in central Delhi, including a cap of 50,000 participants and a fixed time window of 10 am to 5 pm.

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The draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) seeks to bring public gatherings at the venue under a structured framework covering security, traffic management, crowd control and basic facilities. However, the proposals are yet to receive approval and are still being examined.

A senior police officer told ANI that the draft SOP has been forwarded to Delhi Police Headquarters for approval. The officer said the proposal is at an initial stage and its provisions have not been finalised.

Under the proposed procedure, organisers would first have to obtain clearance from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) confirming the availability of the ground. Only after securing this clearance could they approach Delhi Police for permission to hold an event.

Applications would ordinarily have to be submitted at least 10 days before the scheduled programme.

What the proposed Ramlila Maidan guidelines say

The draft places the responsibility for managing the gathering largely on the organisers. They would have to coordinate with traffic authorities, make parking arrangements and identify designated drop-off points for participants.

Organisers would also be required to ensure that roads, access routes and emergency passages remain clear throughout the event. The provisions are aimed at preventing traffic congestion and ensuring that emergency services can reach the venue without obstruction.

On the security front, the proposed guidelines prohibit participants from carrying firearms, swords, spears, sharp objects and other restricted items into the venue. Drone operations in and around the ground would also require prior authorisation.

The draft further requires organisers to provide essential facilities, including drinking water, medical assistance and sanitation arrangements. Proper waste disposal would also be part of the event-management requirements.

The proposed guidelines are not yet in force. The draft has been sent to Delhi Police Headquarters and will come into effect only after approval from the competent authorities.

Further action will be taken once the proposal is examined and the final provisions are cleared.