Delhi Metro Shuts 16 Stations Amid NEET-UG Protest

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced the closure of 16 metro stations on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. This extensive shutdown is a direct response to ongoing student protests at Jantar Mantar and other central Delhi locations.

These demonstrations, spearheaded by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The central issue behind the protest is the alleged Neet-UG paper leak.

Key Details of Metro Disruption and Security

• 16 metro stations have been closed till further instructions by DMRC.
• 20 additional companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have been deployed.
• The station closures commenced on July 22, 2026, to manage public movement.

Impact on Commute: Closed Metro Stations

The closures affect a significant portion of the city’s central metro network, impacting daily commuters. While entry and exit are restricted, interchange facilities remain operational at key junctions.

• Lok Kalyan Marg
• Rajiv Chowk
• Patel Chowk
• Ramakrishna Ashram Marg
• Barakhambha Road
• Supreme Court
• Seva Teerth
• Janpath
• Mandi House
• Central Secretariat
• ITO
• Delhi Gate
• Indraprastha
• Khan Market
• Jor Bagh
• Shivaji Stadium

Passengers can still utilize interchange services at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat, allowing for transfers between lines despite the station closures.

Underlying Cause: Neet-UG Protest Demands

The student protests, particularly those led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), have intensified their calls for accountability. Their primary demand is the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

These protests are a direct consequence of the recent Neet-UG paper leak, which has sparked widespread discontent among students. Protesters have gathered at Jantar Mantar and other critical central Delhi areas, some remaining overnight.

Heightened Security Measures

In anticipation of further unrest and to maintain public order, security measures have been significantly heightened across the national capital. This includes a substantial deployment of paramilitary forces.

The government has deployed 20 additional companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to manage the situation. These forces aim to ensure security and control the large gatherings of demonstrators.

The DMRC’s decision to close 16 stations underscores the significant disruption caused by the ongoing student protests. As security remains heightened, the situation continues to evolve in central Delhi.