Aides of All India Students' Association (AISA) chief Neha Bora on Friday claimed that she had been taken to an unknown location after being detained by Delhi Police while on her way to the ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ protest in the national capital. A post on Bora's X account said she did not have her phone with her and demanded that the police disclose her whereabouts. “Neha Bora detained alone, taken to unknown location,” the post read. It added, “Delhi Police must answer: where is Neha?” The message described the incident as “once again, an abduction”.
Neha Bora detained at Mandi House
Bora was detained at Mandi House, shortly after Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke was picked up from his residence in Jhandewalan. Both were on their way to participate in the ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ protest planned at Connaught Place. The detentions took place amid heightened security arrangements in Delhi, with protesters, camera crews and security personnel jostling at the scene.
Read more - Abhijeet Dipke, Neha Bora detained by Delhi Police ahead of 'Lehra Do Tiranga' protest at Connaught Place
According to news agency PTI, police sources said Dipke was taken to Jafarpur Kalan police station after his detention. The location where Bora was taken was not immediately clear from the information available.
Delhi Police say situation peaceful, focus on law and order
A senior Delhi Police officer confirmed the detention of both leaders and said the situation remained peaceful.
“We have detained Dipke and Bora. The situation is very peaceful. Some protesters have reached Connaught Place and will be removed soon. Our main objective is to maintain law and order and ensure smooth traffic movement,” the officer said.
Earlier in the day, more than 20 police personnel had visited Dipke's residence in Jhandewalan and served him a notice. The notice directed him to refrain from any action that could prejudice the rights of citizens, traders, commuters, patients and others.
Heavy security deployment at Connaught Place
Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar visited the Deputy Commissioner of Police's New Delhi office at Parliament Street police station to review security arrangements. Central Park in Connaught Place was cordoned off, with security personnel forming a human chain along its metal railings. A tear gas vehicle and a Vajra vehicle were stationed outside the park, while Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed inside. Traffic police personnel were also positioned to regulate movement along Connaught Place's inner and outer circles.
Hundreds of protesters, including CJP members and student organisation representatives, gathered at Connaught Place and Mandi House for a series of flash protests. Several waved the national flag amid a heavy police presence.
The protest had been planned despite restrictions in force in Connaught Place and the lack of permission for the proposed gathering. The police had said their priority was to maintain law and order and prevent disruption to traffic and public activity.
Inputs from TOI