'People Falling Sick': CJP's Dipke Claims Delhi Police Denied Tarpaulin at Protest Site Despite Heavy Rain

New Delhi: The Campaign for Justice and Peace (CJP) has accused the Delhi Police of refusing permission to install tarpaulin sheets at an ongoing protest site despite continuous rainfall, alleging that the decision exposed demonstrators to adverse weather conditions and resulted in several people falling ill.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Dipke claimed protesters had repeatedly requested temporary shelter as heavy rain lashed parts of the national capital but were denied approval by the authorities.

"People are falling sick because they have been sitting in the rain without adequate cover. We requested permission to put up tarpaulin sheets, but it was not allowed," Dipke alleged.

According to the organisation, the prolonged exposure to rain has affected elderly participants, women and children at the protest site, with volunteers reportedly arranging basic medical assistance for those experiencing health issues.

The allegations come as Delhi has witnessed intermittent spells of heavy rainfall, leading to waterlogging, traffic disruptions and difficult conditions across several parts of the city. Protesters claimed that the worsening weather made the need for temporary shelter even more urgent.

Delhi Police had not immediately issued a detailed response to the allegations at the time of writing. Officials have previously maintained that arrangements at protest sites are governed by security considerations and applicable legal guidelines, with any temporary structures requiring necessary permissions.

The issue has triggered political reactions, with opposition leaders and civil society groups questioning the handling of the situation and urging authorities to ensure basic humanitarian facilities for demonstrators, irrespective of the nature of the protest.

Supporters of the police, however, argued that security protocols and restrictions on temporary structures are enforced to maintain public order and prevent logistical complications at protest venues.

The latest development adds to the broader debate surrounding the rights of peaceful protesters and the responsibilities of authorities during adverse weather conditions. Legal experts note that while citizens have the right to peaceful assembly under the Constitution, authorities also retain powers to regulate public gatherings in the interest of safety and law and order.

As rain continues to affect the capital, attention is likely to remain focused on whether additional arrangements will be made to protect protesters from the ongoing monsoon conditions.