India, July 23 -- Restaurants, shops, offices and other commercial establishments in New Delhi's Connaught Place were directed to shut by 6.30 pm on Thursday amid heightened security arrangements due to the continuing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protests in central Delhi.

The New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) issued a "most important and urgent" advisory after receiving telephonic instructions from the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), according to the circular.

"Looking at the critical situation around CP, it has been strictly advised that all shops and establishments, including offices and restaurants, in Connaught Place, New Delhi, shall close for the day by 6.30 pm," the July 23 advisory st...