Delhi’s Designated Protest Zones Hit by Access, Infrastructure and Visibility Issues

The Delhi administration has set up a series of designated protest zones across the capital in an effort to streamline public demonstrations and reduce disruptions. Activists and organizers, however, have reported that reaching these sites is often difficult because entry points are limited and not clearly signposted.

In addition to access challenges, the zones lack essential infrastructure such as clean drinking water, functional toilets and shelter, making prolonged gatherings uncomfortable for participants. The absence of these basic amenities has drawn criticism from civil society groups that argue the facilities fall short of constitutional expectations for peaceful assembly.

Visibility is another concern; many of the sites are situated in areas that are not easily identifiable to the public or media, leading to confusion about where protests are permitted. Government officials acknowledge the shortcomings and have indicated that a review of site layouts and signage is underway to address the issues while balancing civic order and the right to protest.