Delhi's Ramlila Maidan protests now carry hefty price tag

Ramlila Maidan has emerged as an increasingly inaccessible venue for public demonstrations, with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi maintaining a fully booked schedule through mid-December. The ground, capable of accommodating 50,000 people, has availability only on December 29, 30, and 31, according to civic authorities.

The financial barrier to using the facility is substantial. Organizers must pay ₹50,000 as the daily booking fee, along with a ₹55,000 refundable security deposit. When taxes are factored in, the total initial outlay reaches ₹1.21 lakh for a single day's use.

Civic officials noted that a limited alternative exists within the ground—a small unrestricted area available for protests and gatherings free of charge. However, this section can accommodate only around 150 people, making it impractical for larger demonstrations.

The booking process involves Delhi's Municipal Corporation of South Delhi horticulture department, which processes applications and grants permission. Applicants must first obtain a no-objection certificate from Delhi Police before the civic body approves their request. The multi-layered approval mechanism, combined with high costs, presents significant hurdles for grassroots organizations seeking to organize public assembly.