Delhi police and security forces used baton charges and tear gas to disperse Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protesters at Jantar Mantar on Monday [1, 2].
The clash highlights growing tensions over alleged examination irregularities and the ongoing hunger strike of activist Sonam Wangchuk, signaling a volatile atmosphere in the capital during the current monsoon session of Parliament [3].
Protesters attempted to breach police barricades near the Central Secretariat Metro Station and Kerala Bhawan [1, 2]. In response, personnel from the Delhi police, Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed lathi charges to control the crowd [1, 2, 3]. Reports on which specific unit led the baton charges vary between the RPF and RAF [2, 4].
Security forces cleared the Jantar Mantar site at approximately 4 p.m. [5]. Despite the clearance, protests continued across other parts of central Delhi [5].
CJP members said their demonstrations were intended to demand government action regarding exam irregularities and to show solidarity with Wangchuk [1, 6]. A CJP spokesperson said, "Delhi Police have cut water and sanitation facilities at Jantar Mantar" [6]. Other reports indicate these cuts occurred after Wangchuk began his hunger strike [6].
Government officials have called for a non-violent resolution to the unrest. Nadda said, "I request the activists to end the protest peacefully" [3].
The unrest has drawn attention from public figures, though some have distanced themselves from the political nature of the event. Diljit Dosanjh said, "I'm an artist, not a politician" [7].
“Delhi police and security forces used baton charges and tear gas to disperse Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protesters”
The escalation at Jantar Mantar reflects a convergence of multiple grievances, ranging from educational integrity to regional activism, that are challenging the security apparatus in New Delhi. The use of force by the RPF and RAF suggests a high-alert status for the government as it manages the monsoon session of Parliament, while the allegations of restricting basic utilities like water indicate a deepening rift between the protesters and law enforcement.
