New Delhi, August 25, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Delhi Police has decided to strengthen its intelligence-gathering mechanism following the violence during a large protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20, with the aim of improving preparedness for major demonstrations and public gatherings.
According to police sources, Commissioner Anurag Kumar has directed the Intelligence Wing and Special Branch to collect and analyse at least 10 key inputs before major or planned protests.
The July 20 demonstration saw a large crowd gather in and around Jantar Mantar to demand action over alleged examination-related irregularities and paper leaks. The protesters attempted to march towards Parliament, following which clashes broke out with police. The use of force drew criticism.
A subsequent review of the intelligence mechanism found gaps in advance information regarding the expected turnout, mobilisation efforts and involvement of different organisations, sources said.
Under the revised system, the Special Branch will prepare more detailed intelligence inputs covering not only the location and expected size of a protest but also its organisers, mobilisation networks and agenda.
Police will gather information on the states from which protesters are arriving, their mode of mobilisation, key leaders and organisers, and their principal demands. Inputs will also cover accommodation arrangements, local contacts and connections in Delhi.
Officials will further examine links with organisations, possible funding sources and logistical arrangements for bringing protesters to the capital.
The objective, according to sources, is to develop a comprehensive assessment of how a major demonstration is being organised, rather than limiting intelligence collection to basic information about its timing and location.
The Commissioner has also directed officials to strengthen wireless communication during protests. The police wireless network has been inspected to identify deficiencies and ensure faster communication between personnel deployed on the ground and senior officers.
Sources said the exercise is aimed at improving assessment of law-and-order risks during large public events and is not intended to prevent protests.
Special attention will be given to demonstrations involving large numbers of participants from outside Delhi or multiple organisations, they added.
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