INDIA Bloc rally at Ramlila Maidan: 250 CCTV cameras and AI surveillance for security

Delhi Police has stepped up security at Ramlila Maidan and the surrounding areas ahead of the INDIA bloc's rally against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls on Sunday, November 1. With a large turnout expected, the authorities are preparing for a major security operation, with multiple layers of surveillance and checks planned across the area.

According to News18, around 250 CCTV cameras have been installed at the rally venue and in the surrounding areas. The police also plan to use artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor crowd movement and identify potential security threats. The aim is to detect any untoward incident early and allow the authorities to respond quickly.

Ramlila Maidan has been divided into 14 sectors for security purposes. Each sector will be overseen by an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). The sectors have been grouped into eight zones under the supervision of senior police officers. Around 3,000 to 3,500 Delhi Police personnel are expected to be deployed, with members of the Central Armed Police Forces also assisting with security. According to media reports, the total deployment could reach nearly 10,000 personnel.

Security checks will also be tightened at the entry points. Of the eight gates at the venue, only three are expected to remain open to the public. Attendees will undergo two rounds of checks, including bag inspections and screening with metal detectors. Separate exit routes have been designated to help evacuate people quickly in case of an emergency.

The rally is also likely to disrupt traffic in parts of Delhi. Restrictions and diversions are expected on several major roads in central Delhi between 10 am and 5 pm. Traffic may be diverted at key intersections, including Turkman Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Delhi Gate, Mirdard Chowk and ITO. Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg and Minto Road are also likely to experience congestion.

However, the security arrangements do not amount to a blanket restriction on residents of Old Delhi leaving their homes. Traffic diversions and restrictions are different from a complete ban on public movement. So far, there have been no credible reports of any such sweeping restrictions being imposed.

The INDIA bloc has accused the authorities of allowing widespread irregularities in electoral rolls during the SIR exercise, claiming that the voting rights of genuine voters are at risk. The Opposition has demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the alleged lapses.

While the Opposition expects a large turnout, the police are preparing for a gathering of around 50,000 people. The rally at Ramlila Maidan could therefore become more than a show of strength for the Opposition. It is also likely to bring renewed attention to the Election Commission's role and the wider debate over electoral transparency and the protection of voting rights.