Delhi Police used lathi charges and tear gas to disperse supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar on Monday [1, 2].
The clash represents a significant escalation in tensions between the CJP and the Indian government. The party's attempt to march to Parliament despite a lack of official permission highlights a growing confrontation over the right to protest in the capital.
Approximately 75,000 people gathered near Jantar Mantar ahead of the planned march [2]. Police personnel intervened when the crowd attempted to move toward Parliament, using batons, known as lathis, to push back the assembly [1, 2].
In addition to the physical charges, authorities deployed tear-gas shells to break up the crowds [2]. The police had previously denied permission for the march and imposed prohibitory orders to prevent the gathering [1, 2].
Law enforcement officials said the actions were necessary to enforce prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS [2]. This legal provision allows authorities to restrict the assembly of people to maintain public order and prevent potential violence.
Despite the crackdown, the CJP had indicated an intent to engage in dialogue with government officials. Reports indicated that the party intended to talk to Nadda regarding their grievances [2].
The scene at Jantar Mantar remained volatile as police worked to clear the area and maintain the perimeter around the legislative district [1, 2].
“Delhi Police used lathi charges and tear gas to disperse supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party”
The invocation of Section 163 of the BNSS signals a strict legal approach by the Delhi Police to curb large-scale political mobilization. By blocking the march to Parliament and using force against a crowd of 75,000, the government is prioritizing the security of the legislative zone over the CJP's demands for visibility and dialogue.
