Delhi police used tear gas and baton charges on Monday to disperse protesters during a 'Chalo Sansad' march toward the Indian Parliament [1, 2].
The escalation highlights growing tensions between civil society activists and security forces in the capital. The clash occurred as a diverse coalition of political and social figures attempted to push past security perimeters to voice their grievances.
The protest gathered at Jantar Mantar before moving toward the power hub of Delhi [1]. According to reports, the situation turned violent near Kerala Bhawan when demonstrators attempted to breach police barricades [2]. In response, security forces deployed lathicharge and tear gas to push back the crowd [1, 2].
Among the participants were activist Sonam Wangchuk and members of the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) [1, 2]. The march also drew high-profile figures, including TMC MP Mahua Moitra, and actors Prakash Raj and Shabana Azmi [1, 2]. Leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party were also present during the demonstration [1, 2].
Violence erupted as some protesters reportedly engaged in stone pelting during the confrontation with police [2]. Authorities said that about eight individuals were involved in the incident, including those arrested or injured [1].
The 'Chalo Sansad' movement sought to bring attention to various issues through a direct march to the legislative seat, but the police response effectively halted the procession's advance toward the Parliament building [1, 2].
“Police deployed lathicharge, tear‑gas, and baton charges as demonstrators attempted to breach barricades”
The use of force against a coalition that includes sitting members of Parliament and internationally recognized activists suggests a tightening of security protocols around Delhi's government district. This incident reflects a broader pattern of friction between the Indian state and organized dissent, where the physical boundaries of the 'power hub' are strictly enforced regardless of the protesters' social or political status.
