On October 10, the Indian capital witnessed a significant police mobilization and restrictions ahead of planned protests at Jantar Mantar, reflecting deep government concerns over dissent. Authorities imposed extensive security measures across Delhi, deploying approximately 20,000 paramilitary troops with an additional 12,000 forces en route, alongside support from police personnel from West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, and Chhattisgarh. These actions accompanied a broad-scale effort to prevent protest gatherings and curb public mobilization.
Barricades were placed at virtually every major roadway, and police actively questioned and turned away pedestrians considered potential protesters. Security checkpoints scrutinized individuals’ movements throughout the city, creating an environment where virtually anyone on the streets was treated with suspicion. Several reports described widespread detentions, including young people and students. In some areas, police reportedly detained individuals from public spaces and even private homes without showing arrest orders, setting up what some observers called informal detention centers. Authorities prepared ten facilities to hold arrested individuals.
The government moved quickly to disrupt access to protest sites. Fifty-seven metro stations were closed, two major railway stations were shut down, and corresponding train services were canceled. Ride-sharing services such as Ola and Uber were instructed to stay off Delhi roads on and around the protest day, while numerous hotels were asked not to accommodate guests. Internet services were significantly restricted across large parts of the city, complicating communication and online education. Delhi University colleges shifted classes to online formats amid heavy police presence surrounding campuses, reflecting official fears that educational institutions might serve as flashpoints for demonstrations.
The police also maintained a strong presence around political party offices. Meanwhile, some YouTubers reported being contacted and allegedly compensated by government supporters to record videos backing the ruling party, highlighting attempts to counter public dissent with organized pro-government activities. Critics argued that while those openly threatening violence were left unchecked, many peaceful protest supporters faced arrests and harassment.
Legal responses to these actions varied. The Madhya Pradesh High Court dismissed a habeas corpus petition concerning the detentions, with judges suggesting that detained adults should simply be sent back to their parents. The Supreme Court upheld the government’s right to restrict protests without prior permission and accepted the city's lockdown measures, raising questions about the balance between public order and civil liberties.
Despite the heavy restrictions, reports from the day indicated that some protest activities persisted. Journalists and protesters attempted to navigate police barricades and find alternative routes to assembly points. A few managed to reach press clubs and rendezvous points, where conversations and informal gatherings took place. Prominent activists such as Neha Bora and Yogendra Yadav were reported detained, and other organizers continued to voice dissent despite the constraints.
While the government framed the tight security and operational shutdowns as necessary to maintain order, critics viewed the measures as evidence of a state afraid of political opposition and silencing the voices of its citizens. The events of October 10 highlighted the deep divisions within the country and underscored ongoing tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party government and segments of the public opposing its policies.