New Delhi: A total of 18 Delhi Metro stations will remain closed until further orders on July 25 due to security arrangements. According to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the affected stations are Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, Shivaji Stadium, Jhandewalan, and New Delhi.

DMRC stated that entry and exit at these stations will remain suspended until further notice. While metro services may continue on the respective lines, trains could skip these stations without halting, depending on operational requirements.

The authorities have urged commuters to check their travel routes in advance and use alternative modes of transport wherever possible. Passengers have also been advised to follow official updates issued by DMRC and the administration to avoid inconvenience.

FRS Identifies Over 2,500 Individuals with Criminal Records

Meanwhile, police sources said that the Facial Recognition System (FRS) deployed at Jantar Mantar has identified more than 2,500 individuals with criminal backgrounds amid the ongoing CJP protest. According to Delhi Police, several persons with criminal records allegedly entered the protest site and attempted to target police personnel, with some reportedly using sharp-edged weapons during clashes.

The FRS surveillance system was installed after the July 20 violence at Jantar Mantar. Over the following three days—July 21, 22, and 23—the system helped identify more than 2,500 suspected troublemakers, and Delhi Police has so far registered 15 FIRs in connection with the incidents.

Police clarified that the FRS system is not intended to monitor ordinary protesters, but is specifically aimed at identifying wanted criminals, absconders, history-sheeters, and habitual offenders who may attempt to infiltrate demonstrations and disrupt law and order.

Liquor Shops to Close Early Due to Security Arrangements

Amid the ongoing student protests at Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak, liquor shops in the national capital will also operate with reduced hours over the weekend.

According to a senior Delhi government official, all liquor outlets will close at 8:00 PM instead of the usual 10:00 PM. The decision has been taken based on inputs received from Delhi Police in view of the prevailing law and order situation around the protest site.