Delhi police used a lathi charge on Monday to disperse protesters from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar [1].
The incident highlights escalating tensions between political activists and law enforcement during the 2026 monsoon session of Parliament. The use of force against demonstrators in the capital often signals a tightening of security protocols around government installations.
The clash occurred as CJP members attempted to march toward Parliament [1]. Police deployed batons, known as lathis, to break up the crowd and prevent the procession from advancing [1]. The action took place at Jantar Mantar, a traditional site for public protests in Delhi [1].
Authorities acted to disperse the gathering amid a lack of clarity regarding whether the march had received official permission [1]. The confrontation resulted in a chaotic scene as police moved in to clear the area.
One protester, identified as Dipke, criticized the security measures during the event. "They've made it like North Korea," Dipke said [1].
The CJP has not released a formal statement regarding the number of injuries resulting from the charge. Police officials have not detailed the specific orders that led to the use of force, though the primary objective was to maintain a security perimeter around the legislative buildings [1].
“Police used a lathi charge on Monday to disperse protesters from the Cockroach Janta Party”
The use of lathi charges at Jantar Mantar reflects a recurring pattern of friction between the Indian state and political dissidents during high-profile legislative sessions. By restricting movement toward Parliament, security forces prioritize the stability of the government's operational zone over the right to assembly, often leading to accusations of authoritarianism from opposition parties.
