SONIPAT/BAHADURGARH: Security was tightened across Sonipat and Bahadurgarh on Friday ahead of a protest called by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Police personnel were deployed at major roads, border points, railway stations and toll plazas, while vehicles heading towards the national capital were subjected to intensive checks.In Sonipat, security arrangements were strengthened at the Kundli-Singhu border, where water cannons, riot-control vehicles, tear gas equipment, fire tenders and ambulances were stationed to deal with any eventuality. Police personnel checked private vehicles and passenger buses, questioned travellers about their destinations and examined documents before allowing them to proceed towards Delhi.Congress workers who reached Sonipat railway station to stage a protest were detained by police. A heavy police presence was maintained on the premises. In Ganaur, farmer leader Virender Pehal and several others were also reportedly detained in connection with the proposed demonstration.Security was also intensified at the Sonipat-Murthal toll plaza, where additional personnel, a crane and a bus were deployed. Police monitored highways and alternative routes leading to Delhi to prevent any disruption and maintain law and order.In Bahadurgarh, police established checkpoints at Tikri border, Jharoda border, the Urban Extension Road (UER), Rohad toll plaza and routes leading to Delhi through Kanonda. Vehicles and buses were stopped for inspection, while passengers were questioned about their travel plans.CCTV cameras were used to strengthen surveillance, and a contingent of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was also deployed at the border. Police personnel remained stationed at checkpoints from morning until late evening, keeping a close watch on traffic movement and sensitive locations.Meanwhile, INLD leaders Mohit Rathi Zila Parishad, Ramniwas Saini and advocate Vipin were reportedly placed under house arrest in the morning. They were expected to travel to Jantar Mantar with their supporters to participate in the CJP protest.The heightened security measures affected movement towards Delhi, with commuters facing checks and possible delays at several locations. However, the extent of the disruption to traffic and public transport could not be independently established.The police action has also brought renewed attention to the balance between maintaining public order and protecting citizens’ right to peaceful protest. Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and peaceful assembly, subject to reasonable restrictions prescribed by law.
