Jantar Mantar sees fresh reservation protest, over 50 detained
Delhi’s Jantar Mantar witnessed a fresh protest on Friday as demonstrators gathered under the banner of ‘Reservation Hatao Andolan’, demanding changes to India’s existing reservation system. More than 50 protesters were detained after the gathering continued beyond the permitted time, according to police and media reports.
Hundreds of people gathered during the day, with protesters calling for economic criteria to be given greater weight in determining eligibility for government support and reservation. Participants also demanded a review of the existing reservation framework and raised concerns over the UGC roster system.
The protesters raised slogans including “Aarakshan gareeb ko mile, jaati ko nahi”, arguing that assistance should reach economically disadvantaged people irrespective of caste. Some participants also called for a “creamy layer” criterion and a review of reservation policies over time.
Police had not permitted protest at Jantar Mantar
Delhi Police said permission had not been granted for a protest at Jantar Mantar on Friday. Instead, a no-objection certificate had been issued for a peaceful demonstration at Ramlila Ground, allowing up to 500 people to gather until 4 pm.
Despite the restrictions, protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar, prompting police to deploy additional personnel and paramilitary forces and erect barricades around the area.
Protest continues beyond permitted time
Police said most demonstrators left after the permitted period ended, but several protesters remained at the site despite repeated requests to disperse.
The situation escalated around 7:30 pm when those remaining began raising slogans, following which additional Delhi Police personnel and Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed. The protesters were subsequently detained and the area was cleared.
The demonstration also affected traffic in central Delhi, with restrictions and diversions imposed around Sansad Marg, Tolstoy Road and Ashoka Road.
Protesters seek overhaul of reservation framework
The social media-driven campaign has called for a broader review of reservation policies. Protesters demanded that economic circumstances be considered while deciding eligibility for government assistance, including education, coaching and other welfare measures.
Some demonstrators also advocated a “one family, one reservation, one time” approach, arguing that reservation benefits should not continue across generations within the same family after one member has already benefited. Others called for a time limit or “sunset clause” for reservation provisions.
#WATCH | Delhi: Delhi Police, along with the Rapid Action Force, detain protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar.
A large number of people have gathered here to protest against caste-based reservation.
Protestors say, “We were holding a peaceful protest over UGC and SC-ST…” pic.twitter.com/AQHDpNANEr
— ANI (@ANI) August 21, 2026
The fresh demonstration comes days after large-scale protests at Jantar Mantar over examination-related issues, keeping the Delhi protest site at the centre of renewed public mobilisation.
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
- Reservation Hatao Andolan draws hundreds to Jantar Mantar - August 22, 2026
- India slams USCIRF over call for sanctions against RSS ahead of Bhagwat’s US visit - August 22, 2026
- India dismisses Pakistan’s protest over Sergio Gor’s J&K remark - August 21, 2026
