Delhi police used lathi-charges against supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) during a protest at Jantar Mantar on Monday [1].
The incident highlights escalating tensions between the CJP and government authorities as the party attempts to mobilize public demonstrations in the capital. This clash underscores the volatility of political gatherings in Central Delhi when official permissions are withheld.
Demonstrators gathered at Jantar Mantar with the intent to march toward Parliament [1]. Police had denied permission for the march, leading to a confrontation between security forces and the crowd. To control the situation, officers deployed lathi-charges to disperse the protesters [1].
In addition to the physical crackdown, internet services were shut down in the areas surrounding Jantar Mantar [2]. The digital blackout is a common tactic used by authorities in New Delhi to prevent the coordination of crowds, and the rapid spread of information during civil unrest [2].
While some reports focus on the use of force, other accounts indicate that the internet shutdown was the primary tool for managing the perimeter [2]. The CJP said it intends to seek discussions with Nadda regarding their grievances [2].
The area around Jantar Mantar remained under heavy security following the disruption. Police maintained a presence in Central Delhi to ensure no further attempts were made to breach the security cordons surrounding the legislative buildings [1].
“Delhi police used lathi-charges against supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party”
The combination of physical force and digital shutdowns suggests a high-security posture by the Indian government toward the CJP. By cutting off internet access and utilizing lathi-charges, authorities are prioritizing the containment of the protest over the demonstrators' right to assembly, signaling a low tolerance for unauthorized marches toward Parliament.
