New Delhi: Civil society organisations and trade unions gathered at Jantar Mantar to protest against what they described as shrinking democratic spaces in the capital. The open convention, titled “Convention Against Shrinking Democratic Spaces,” brought together activists, academics, and labour representatives who criticised restrictive regulations imposed on protests.
Speakers said that Delhi, once known as a hub of democratic expression, is witnessing growing curbs on the right to assemble. Com. Mrigank of CPI(ML) New Democracy noted that securing permission for demonstrations at Jantar Mantar had turned into a “labyrinth of arbitrary rules.”
Prof. Madhu Prasad of the All India Forum for Right to Education, Prof. Nandita Narayan of the Democratic Teachers’ Front, and representatives of organisations including NFIW, IFTU, AIUTUC, PUCL, Jan Hastakshep, PMS, MEK, AIMMS, and PDSU highlighted that advance notices of at least 10 days are now required. They said written clearances are often denied without reason.
Participants condemned the ban on protests under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita across New Delhi district. They said the prohibition has cut off citizens from direct engagement with authorities. They also warned that restrictions are spreading to industrial areas, ration shops, labour offices, and wage-related demonstrations.
The gathering noted that historic processions like May Day rallies, Bhagat Singh memorial marches, and International Women’s Day events have been blocked, undermining India’s democratic traditions.
Organisers submitted a memorandum to Delhi Lt. Governor V.K. Saxena demanding simpler intimation procedures for protests and an end to sweeping prohibitory orders.
