The decision also affects Rajdhani Express services from West Bengal and several trains from Banaras and Bihar. Indian Railways on Friday cancelled all Mail and Express trains scheduled to reach New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations between 4 am and 2 pm on Saturday amid a planned protest in the national capital.
Delhi Police has sought restrictions on Delhi Metro services ahead of the protest. Police also sought a possible reduction in train frequency at these stations. The protesters are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and opposing the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Security has been tightened in central Delhi and on major entry routes to the capital.
Railway authorities cited intelligence reports and traffic advisories warning of severe congestion around New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations on October 10 due to the planned demonstration. In a letter dated October 8, Joint Commissioner of Police Rajneesh Gupta asked the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation to close entry and exit gates at 57 stations from 9 pm on Friday until the situation normalises. The disruptions are linked to a protest called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and supporting organisations at Jantar Mantar on October 10.
They said road restrictions could make it difficult for passengers to reach stations or arrange onwards transport after arrival. Police said the application lacked the required advance notice.
Delhi Police denied permission for the protest, citing public safety, traffic management concerns and alleged violations of conditions during earlier demonstrations.
