Prohibitory orders in central Delhi, large gatherings banned as CAA protesters hit the streets

The Delhi Police on Tuesday imposed prohibitory orders (under Section 144) in the areas of Mandi House and nearby after some groups called for mass protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

Police said protesters started gathering at Mandi House around 12 pm following which adequate precautionary measures were put in place.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Eish Singhal said Section 144 is imposed in most areas of New Delhi. “We have not detained anyone so far. Adequate police presence is in the area. So far it has been peaceful,” he said.

On Monday, during a similar protest police detained more than 100 protesters from outside Uttar Pradesh Bhawan and Assam Bhawan in New Delhi.

The CAA grants citizenship to non-Muslims of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who fled religious persecution and arrived in India until December 31, 2014.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal have appealed to the people to maintain peace and tranquility.