Delhi Police request extended CAPF deployment ahead of anticipated protests

Delhi Police has petitioned the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to extend the deployment of 273 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in the national capital, according to sources on Tuesday. The extension request seeks to maintain law and order through October 20, beyond the originally scheduled end date of Monday.

The force deployment was approved in two phases, with 221 companies cleared on October 6 and an additional 80 companies authorised on October 8, bringing the total approved deployment to 301 companies. However, 28 of the additional companies had not yet reported for duty as of Monday, sources indicated.

Police have identified several sensitive locations as potential flashpoints for demonstrations, including Jantar Mantar, the Election Commission headquarters, Parliament House, and India Gate. The advisory specifically flags concerns over demonstrations by the Bhim Army, student organisations, and other political groups.

The extension request underscores heightened security concerns in the capital, with authorities preparing contingency measures ahead of anticipated protest activity. The deployment decision reflects police assessments of the security environment and operational requirements in managing public order across multiple sensitive sites.