Ramlila Maidan Protest Bookings Cost Over ₹1 Lakh, Free Space Fits Just 150

Following Delhi Police's decision to discontinue Jantar Mantar as a designated protest location, demonstrators now face significant financial barriers at Ramlila Maidan, one of three alternative venues announced for public gatherings in the capital.

The 12-acre ground, capable of hosting 50,000 people, requires a booking fee of ₹50,000 per day plus a ₹55,000 refundable security deposit. Including taxes, the total initial cost reaches approximately ₹1.21 lakh for a single day. Currently, no dates are available until late December, with only the 29th, 30th, and 31st open for booking this year, according to municipal officials.

While a small section of the venue remains free for demonstrations, its capacity is limited to just 150 people. The booking process requires approval from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's horticulture department, along with a mandatory no-objection certificate from Delhi Police before any application can proceed.

The October 11 standing order by Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar de-notified Jantar Mantar and designated Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground in East Delhi as new demonstration sites. A detailed standard operating procedure for protests at these locations is expected to be issued separately.

Municipal officials noted that waiving fees would result in significant revenue loss for the civic body, particularly as the venue hosts various festivals and programs. The ground's location in a busy commercial area near three hospitals and municipal headquarters also creates traffic management challenges during large events, frequently requiring road diversions and causing congestion in the surrounding neighborhood.