Bengaluru police on Friday granted permission to the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) Tiranga March, hours after refusing approval for the proposed gathering at Town Hall. The march has been permitted with restrictions on speeches, slogans and displays to maintain public order.
The march, organised as part of CJP’s “Lehra Do Tiranga” campaign, is expected to draw around 200 to 300 participants. It was originally scheduled to begin at Town Hall at 4 pm and conclude at the Quit India Memorial near Mysuru Bank Circle on Kempegowda Road.
According to a communication dated October 16 from the office of the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Halasuru Gate subdivision, the organisers have been permitted to conduct the event between 5 pm and 6.30 pm.
Restrictions Imposed by Police
The permission letter, addressed to Krishna K.N. of Jagrata Karnataka and Rahul T.S. and Lekha Adavi of Nanna Mata Nanna Hakku, lays down several conditions for the march.
The police have prohibited provocative or inflammatory speeches, slogans targeting individuals, organisations or communities, and the display of posters, banners or placards that could disturb public order. Organisers have also been instructed to conclude the programme within the stipulated time and comply with applicable court directions.
The police communication referred to Karnataka High Court proceedings concerning protests, demonstrations, rallies, sit-ins and road blockades at locations not designated for such activities.
Dispute Over Town Hall Venue
Earlier, police had denied permission for the gathering at Town Hall, stating that Freedom Park was Bengaluru’s designated venue for protests and demonstrations. Officials also noted that the organisers had publicised their plans on social media.
The organisers, however, maintained that the event was a peaceful march rather than a protest. Rahul Jagrata, a Karnataka coordinator for CJP, said they had submitted an intimation letter to the police and were awaiting an official response.
The revised permission allows the march to proceed under the prescribed conditions.
Marches Planned in Other Cities
The Bengaluru event is part of CJP’s “Lehra Do Tiranga” campaign, which includes planned gatherings in other cities. Permission was granted for a march at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan on Friday.
In New Delhi, authorities closed Central Park in Connaught Place on October 16 and 17, restricting access to the location where the group had proposed to gather.
