Source HT
NEW DELHI — A protest demanding urgent government action against Delhi’s “very poor” air quality escalated into a violent confrontation at the India Gate C-Hexagon on Sunday, resulting in the arrest of 22 demonstrators and injuries to several police personnel.
The situation spiralled out of control when a group of protesters, who had gathered without official permission, allegedly used chilli or pepper spray on police officers attempting to clear a blocked road.
How the Protest Unfolded
The demonstration, organised by various citizen and student groups, was held to highlight the capital’s deteriorating air quality, which has been hovering in the ‘Very Poor’ category.
Gathering and Defiance: Protesters initially gathered at the C-Hexagon, a non-designated protest zone. According to New Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Devesh Kumar Mahla, they were asked to disperse and clear the area, especially to allow for the passage of ambulances and emergency vehicles.
Barricade Breach: The demonstrators refused to move, broke through police barricades, and occupied the carriageway, blocking traffic.
Chilli Spray Used: As police personnel moved in to forcibly remove the crowd and restore traffic flow, several protesters allegedly used chilli/pepper spray on the officers. DCP Mahla described the use of chilli spray against police as “unusual” and a first in such an agitation.
Injuries and Arrests: Several officers sustained eye and facial injuries and were taken to RML Hospital for treatment. The Delhi Police confirmed that a total of 22 people were subsequently arrested for obstructing public servants, blocking the road, and using force.
FIRs Registered, Maoist Slogans Probed
The Delhi Police has registered First Information Reports (FIRs) at the Kartavya Path and Sansad Marg police stations, invoking various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against the arrested individuals, including charges related to obstruction of official work and assault.
In a separate and serious development, visuals from the protest site showed some agitators holding posters and raising slogans associated with slain Maoist commander Madvi Hidma. Police officials confirmed that this matter is under thorough investigation, and strict legal action will be taken against those found involved in raising or displaying slogans linked to the banned outfit.
The protest highlights the growing frustration among Delhi’s residents over the government’s inability to provide a permanent solution to the annual air pollution crisis.
