The Samajwadi Party leader dubbed the traffic advisory restricting app-based services “foodbandi,” as security forces tighten curbs around the ongoing NEET paper leak demonstrations in central Delhi.
NEW DELHI — Severe security restrictions surrounding the ongoing student demonstrations at Jantar Mantar have triggered a sharp political backlash after Delhi Police issued orders regulating app-based food delivery and ride-hailing services in the area.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav strongly condemned the move on Friday, coining the term “foodbandi” to draw a direct comparison to the government’s 2016 demonetization exercise. Taking to social media, Yadav criticized the administration for cutting off access to basic essentials while attempting to control the crowd.
“Roti mat chhino! (Notebandi ke baad Foodbandi),” Yadav wrote on X, accusing the authorities of depriving people of food under the guise of managing law and order in the heart of the national capital.
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Delivery Apps and Cab Services Restricted
The political controversy erupted following a fresh advisory from the Delhi Traffic Police directing e-commerce operators, ride-hailing cabs, logistics services, and quick-commerce food platforms to strictly regulate or suspend operations within the notified central Delhi zone until further notice.
Police officials defended the curbs, stating that the measures were instituted under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. According to law enforcement, restricting delivery riders and gig workers from entering the barricaded zone is intended to prevent traffic congestion, protect delivery personnel, and maintain public order.
The restrictions come as the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) continues its multi-week sit-in at Jantar Mantar. The demonstrators are demanding structural examination reforms and the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following widespread allegations of paper leaks and administrative flaws in the NEET-UG 2026 exams.
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Connaught Place Businesses Face Early Shutters
The ripple effects of the police crackdown have quickly extended beyond delivery workers and protesters into central Delhi’s commercial hubs.
On Thursday, the New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) urged restaurant owners, corporate office establishments, and retail shops across Connaught Place to shut down operations early by 6:30 PM. The commercial advisory was issued following discussions with the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) chairperson to align with heightened security protocols and multi-layered police barricading.
With central Delhi transformed into a heavily guarded security zone, traffic diversions and multi-tier checkpoints continue to cause widespread disruptions for daily commuters, business owners, and gig economy workers across the region.
FAQ
What is the “foodbandi” controversy about?
The row began after Delhi Police restricted food delivery and ride-hailing services around Jantar Mantar due to ongoing protests. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the move as “foodbandi,” alleging it denies basic access to food.
Why did Delhi Police restrict app-based delivery platforms?
Police imposed the restrictions under Section 163 of the BNSS, citing security management, traffic control, and the safety of delivery drivers during large-scale public demonstrations.
How are local businesses in Connaught Place affected?
Following NDMC guidance, local trader associations requested shops and restaurants to close by 6:30 PM to accommodate police security arrangements and traffic diversions.
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