Anticipating protests following the death of the 23-year-old gang-rape victim, Delhi Police today stepped up security in the Capital closing India Gate and Raisina Hill for the public besides 10 Metro stations.
A large number of police personnel were deployed at Rajpath, the stretch connecting India Gate and Raisina Hill where largescale protests were witnessed last weekend, and roads leading to this were closed.
Police Commissioner Neeraj Kumar last night tweeted, “praying hard for the rape victim will ensure accused are given severest punishment and quickly Reqst ppl to stay calm and maintain peace.”
A senior police official said the entire central Vista including Rajpath, Vijay Chowk and all roads leading to India Gate will be closed for general traffic.
“Kamal Attaturk Marg also closed. All travellers advised to avoid these roads,” the official said.
Ten Metro stations in Central Delhi were closed down for an indefinite period, as a precautionary measure by Delhi Police to prevent protesters from reaching the India Gate.
The stations which will remain out of bounds for people are Pragati Maidan, Mandi House, Barakhamba Road, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Udyog Bhawan, Race Course, Jor Bagh and Khan Market.
However, inter-change facility will be available at Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat stations, DMRC officials said.
India Gate and Raisina Hill had witnessed violent protests against the gang-rape and police resorted to baton charge, water cannons and lobbing teargas shells to disperse protesters.
Constable Subhash Tomar died last Sunday during violent protests.