Delhi Police proposes 50,000 cap, fixed hours at Ramlila Ground

Delhi Police has drafted a standard operating procedure (SOP) for Ramlila Ground in Central Delhi, proposing a maximum capacity of 50,000 participants and permitting protests, rallies and demonstrations only between 10 am and 5 pm. Marches and processions from the venue will be prohibited. The draft, prepared by senior district officers, has been sent to the Police Headquarters for approval, Indian Express, Times Now and Deccan Chronicle all reported on 14 November.

Under the proposed rules, organisers must first obtain a Venue Availability Certificate from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi before applying for police permission through the designated Arrangement Cell, at least 10 days before the event. Participants will be barred from carrying lathis, firearms, spears, swords and sharp objects. Drone operations near the venue will require prior authorisation. Organisers must coordinate with traffic police, arrange drinking water, medical aid and sanitation, and comply with noise norms. The move follows the de-notification of Jantar Mantar as a protest venue in October.

The final SOP will come into force only after approval from the competent authorities, the sources said. Senior officers told Indian Express that once the Ramlila Ground SOP is finalised, similar guidelines will be prepared for Burari Ground and CBD Ground.