Security forces used a lathi charge to disperse Cockroach Janta Party supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar in central Delhi on Monday [1].
The clash highlights escalating tensions between political activists and law enforcement over the right to protest in the capital's high-security zones.
Protesters had gathered at Jantar Mantar to demand action on various public issues [1]. The situation intensified when the group attempted to proceed with a planned march toward Parliament, an action for which police had denied permission [2].
Security forces resorted to the baton charge, known as a lathi charge, after protesters clashed with officers [1]. The police action was aimed at clearing the area and preventing the unauthorized march from reaching the legislative building [2].
Amid the unrest, three student leaders ended their hunger strike at the Jantar Mantar site [1]. The conclusion of the strike coincided with the police intervention to break up the larger crowd.
Local authorities said the security measures were necessary to preserve order in central Delhi. The Cockroach Janta Party supporters had intended to use the march to bring visibility to their grievances, but the lack of official clearance led to the confrontation with security forces [2].
“Security forces used a lathi charge to disperse Cockroach Janta Party supporters.”
The use of force at Jantar Mantar underscores the ongoing friction between democratic assembly and strict security protocols in Delhi. By denying permission for the march and employing lathi charges, the state prioritizes urban stability and the security of government installations over the visibility of fringe political movements.
