Akhilesh Yadav on Jantar Mantar Protest: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday attacked the Delhi Police move to control food delivery and app-based services around Jantar Mantar. He called it “foodbandi” and compared it with demonetisation. In his post on X, he wrote, “Roti mat chhino! (Notebandi ke baad Foodbandi),” saying the step was cutting off food access for people who were staying near the protest site. The issue comes as the CJP protest continues at Jantar Mantar over alleged paper leak and exam-related irregularities, including the NEET-UG 2026 row.
MHA Extends Internet Shutdown Near Jantar Mantar for Fifth Time Since July 17
What the Delhi Police told delivery apps
The Delhi Traffic Police has asked app-based mobility and delivery platforms to regulate their services in the notified area until further orders. This covers ride-hailing apps, food delivery platforms, quick-commerce companies, logistics firms and other e-commerce services. The police said the restrictions were needed to keep public order and to protect delivery workers, drivers and commuters while the situation around Jantar Mantar remains tense. People were also told to avoid the area unless travel is really necessary.
The curb has affected the movement of delivery riders and other app-based workers inside the restricted zone. That has drawn criticism from opposition leaders, especially Yadav, who said the government was making life harder for ordinary people instead of easing the situation. The atmosphere in central Delhi has stayed tight because the protest has been going on for several days and security teams are trying to stop any further trouble.
Shops told to close early in Connaught Place
There was also trouble for traders near the protest area. The New Delhi Traders Association asked shopkeepers, office owners and restaurant operators in Connaught Place to shut by 6.30 pm on Thursday. The association said it issued the advisory after guidance from the NDMC chairperson, and it linked the step to security arrangements and traffic limits around the protest.
Delhi Police Stops Routine Leave Over Security Concerns During Paper Leak Protest
The CJP protest at Jantar Mantar has now led to heavy barricading, strong security checks and traffic diversions across central Delhi. Authorities are trying to keep the law-and-order situation under control, while the protest site continues to draw crowds and attention from political leaders, students and supporters.
