Delhi Protests: Open Nationals organisers tell athletes, coaches to reach venue “well in advance”

Multiple metro stations have been closed until further notice, citing security reasons, in New Delhi. | Photo Credit: SUSHIL KUMAR VERMA

Organisers of the National Open Athletics Championships in New Delhi have asked all participating athletes and coaches to reach the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium “well in advance” for Saturday’s evening session due to the ongoing protests in the city.

The protests are against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and the Election Commission of India’s Special Intensive Revision exercise.

In an official notice on Saturday, Delhi Athletics said, “All Coaches, Team Managers, and Staff are requested to reach Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium well in advance for the evening session of the 65th National Open Athletics Championships.

READ | Manikanta returns from injury to win 100m title at National Open Athletics Championships

“In view of a protest scheduled in Delhi today, certain traffic restrictions and road closures may be in place. As per the traffic advisory, some routes may be affected, and the closure of certain metro stations may also cause inconvenience.

“Everyone is therefore advised to make the necessary arrangements to reach the stadium well in advance to ensure timely arrival for the evening session.”

Saturday’s evening session is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. IST and features 18 events, including 11 finals.

Ahead of Saturday’s protest, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation had announced the closure of 45 metro stations in view of the prevailing law and order situation.

The authorities have imposed strict security measures and traffic restrictions across New Delhi, with police personnel and Border Security Force jawans deployed at key points.