Sixteen Metro stations in central Delhi were closed on July 22 due to heightened security measures in response to ongoing protests demanding accountability in the education system.
New Delhi, India Jul 22, 2026 ALN: Sixteen central Delhi Metro stations, including Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, and Central Secretariat, were closed on Wednesday amid heightened security against the backdrop of the Jantar Mantar protest. The decision to close these stations was made by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to ensure the safety of commuters and to maintain public order during the unrest. The closure of these stations is significant given their strategic locations in the heart of the capital, which are frequented by thousands of commuters daily. This disruption not only affects daily travelers but also highlights the tensions brewing within the city over pressing socio-political issues.
The DMRC, however, stated that interchange facilities remain operational at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat to allow transfers despite full station closures. This means that while passengers cannot enter or exit at the closed stations, they can still switch lines at these key interchange points, which is crucial for maintaining some level of connectivity within the metro system. The ability to transfer between lines at these stations allows for some degree of mobility, albeit limited, which is essential in a city where the metro is a primary mode of transport for many.
The list of closed stations includes Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhambha Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, and Shivaji Stadium. These stations are not only vital for daily commuters but also serve as access points to important governmental and commercial hubs. Their closure during a time of unrest signifies the seriousness of the situation and the measures taken by authorities to ensure public safety.
This comes against the backdrop of violent protests that broke out on Monday as thousands of supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and students marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over recurring examination irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leaks. The NEET-UG, or the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduates, is a critical examination for students aspiring to enter medical colleges in India. The repeated leaks and irregularities have caused widespread outrage among students and parents alike, leading to calls for accountability and reforms in the education sector. The significance of this examination cannot be understated, as it determines the future of countless students and their aspirations within the medical field.
The protests, which began at Jantar Mantar, drew students, opposition leaders, and activists demanding accountability in the education system. Jantar Mantar has historically been a site for protests and demonstrations in India, serving as a platform for various groups to voice their grievances. The convergence of students and political figures at this location underscores the seriousness of the issues at hand and the collective demand for change. The protests reflect a larger discontent within the educational landscape, where students feel marginalized by systemic failures and lack of transparency in the examination processes.
Delhi Police have assured a thorough investigation into the violence that occurred during the protests. The involvement of law enforcement is crucial not only for maintaining order but also for addressing the concerns raised by the demonstrators. The police's response to the protests will be closely scrutinized, particularly in light of past incidents where the handling of protests has led to allegations of excessive force or mismanagement. The balance between maintaining law and order and respecting the right to protest is a delicate one, and the actions taken by the police in this instance will likely have long-lasting implications for public trust in law enforcement.
Meanwhile, security has been heightened in the area to maintain law and order. The increased police presence is a common response to large-scale protests, especially when there is a risk of violence or unrest. Authorities are tasked with balancing the right to protest with the need to ensure public safety, a challenge that often leads to tensions between demonstrators and law enforcement. The heightened security measures, while aimed at preventing escalation, can also be perceived as an infringement on civil liberties, raising further questions about the state’s approach to dissent.
Earlier on Tuesday night, Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh met innovator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, shortly after he was shifted there from Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital for further treatment. Wangchuk, known for his work in sustainable development and education reform, has been a vocal critic of the government's policies regarding education and environmental issues. His activism has garnered significant attention, and his current hunger strike has raised awareness about the urgent need for reforms. Wangchuk's hunger strike is a powerful form of protest that underscores the desperation felt by many regarding the current state of the education system.
Wangchuk was discharged from Safdarjung Hospital earlier in the evening and taken to Medanta in an ambulance under tight security, in compliance with a Delhi High Court order. The court's involvement highlights the legal complexities surrounding his situation, particularly as it relates to his health and the implications of his hunger strike. He was admitted to the hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) under the supervision of Dr. Sushila Kataria, an internal medicine specialist, according to hospital officials. The decision to place him in the ICU indicates the seriousness of his condition, which has raised concerns among his supporters and the public. This situation not only draws attention to Wangchuk's personal struggle but also serves as a metaphor for the broader challenges facing the education system in India.
The meeting held on Tuesday night between the two Union Ministers and Wangchuk came as the activist continued his indefinite hunger strike, which has entered its 25th day on Wednesday. This hunger strike is a form of protest aimed at drawing attention to the issues he is advocating for and has become a focal point for discussions around education policy and governance in India. The prolonged nature of his protest raises questions about the government's responsiveness to civil society and the mechanisms in place for addressing the grievances of citizens. As Wangchuk's health deteriorates, the pressure on the government to respond to the demands for educational reform intensifies.
As the situation continues to develop, the implications of these protests and the government's response will likely reverberate throughout the political landscape in India. The intersection of education, governance, and civil rights is a critical area of concern, and the actions taken by both protesters and authorities will shape the discourse surrounding these issues in the coming weeks. The protests reflect a growing sentiment among students and citizens regarding the need for accountability and reform in the education sector, and the government's handling of these events will be closely watched by various stakeholders, including political analysts, educators, and the general public. The outcome of these protests could set a precedent for how future demonstrations are managed and how the government engages with civil society on critical issues.
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