Source The Hindu
New Delhi: A fresh wave of protests in the national capital turned tense on Monday as demonstrators gathered at Jantar Mantar alleged a forceful police crackdown. The Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP), one of the groups backing the protest, claimed that authorities resorted to “brutal measures” to disperse the crowd.
According to CJP representatives, several protesters were detained and removed from the site amid heightened security presence. Eyewitnesses reported scuffles between police personnel and demonstrators as the situation escalated, with barricades being pushed back and slogans raised against the alleged use of force.
Police officials, however, maintained that the action was necessary to maintain law and order. Sources within the Delhi Police stated that the gathering had exceeded permitted limits and that some protesters attempted to violate restrictions imposed at the venue. Authorities added that minimal force was used and that the situation was brought under control swiftly.
The protest, organized to highlight various social and political concerns, drew participants from different civil society groups and activists. Organizers accused the administration of stifling dissent and restricting the democratic right to peaceful protest in New Delhi.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show protesters being escorted away by police, though the authenticity of some clips could not be independently verified. Human rights advocates have called for an impartial inquiry into the incident, urging transparency and accountability from authorities.
As tensions linger, political reactions have started to emerge, with opposition leaders criticizing the alleged crackdown, while government supporters defended the police action as a necessary step to maintain public order.
The situation at Jantar Mantar remains under close watch, with security tightened to prevent further unrest. Officials have urged citizens to follow regulations and avoid gatherings without proper permissions, while protest groups have vowed to continue their demonstrations in the coming days.
