NEW DELHI: Fresh violence broke out near Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and Sansad Marg on Wednesday as a large gathering of protesters clashed with security personnel during the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led agitation demanding education reforms and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The confrontation prompted police to fire tear gas shells, impose strict security measures, and suspend internet services in parts of central Delhi to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain law and order.
The protests, which began as a movement against repeated examination paper leaks and alleged irregularities in competitive recruitment examinations, witnessed a sharp escalation when demonstrators attempted to move beyond designated protest areas. According to Delhi Police, several protesters allegedly breached security barricades and engaged in stone-pelting, leading to injuries among police personnel deployed at the site. Authorities stated that repeated warnings were issued before force was used to disperse the crowd.
Heavy Security Deployment Across Protest Zone
Security arrangements were significantly intensified around Jantar Mantar, Sansad Marg, and adjoining roads. Personnel from the Delhi Police, Rapid Action Force (RAF), and other security agencies were deployed to prevent protesters from advancing towards Parliament and other high-security locations.
Police used tear gas shells after sections of the crowd allegedly became aggressive and refused to disperse despite repeated appeals. Temporary barricades were strengthened, and access to several roads remained restricted as authorities worked to restore normalcy.
Officials also suspended mobile internet services in selected areas of central Delhi as a precautionary measure, stating that the restrictions were intended to curb the circulation of rumours and inflammatory content on social media during the tense situation.
Police Report Injuries Among Personnel
Delhi Police said a significant number of personnel sustained injuries while attempting to control the crowd. Officials alleged that protesters attacked security forces with stones and other objects while violating prohibitory orders. Medical assistance was provided to the injured officers, and authorities continued to monitor the security situation throughout the day.
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The police maintained that the use of force was a necessary response after demonstrators allegedly ignored repeated warnings and attempted to breach security arrangements. Officials also reiterated that maintaining peace in the national capital remained their top priority.
Protest Movement Continues
The ongoing agitation has evolved into one of the country’s most prominent youth-led protest movements in recent months. Initially focused on alleged examination irregularities and repeated paper leaks, the campaign has expanded to include broader demands for transparency in recruitment processes, accountability within the education system, and action against those responsible for examination-related controversies.
Student groups and supporters have continued gathering at Jantar Mantar despite heightened security. Volunteers have reportedly been arranging food, medical assistance, and logistical support for demonstrators, helping sustain the protest over several days.
Political Reactions Intensify
The protests have also drawn significant political attention. Opposition leaders have voiced support for the demonstrators and criticised the police action, alleging excessive use of force against peaceful protesters. The developments have triggered heated exchanges between the ruling party and opposition parties, with both sides accusing each other of politicising the issue.
Meanwhile, the government has maintained that while peaceful protests are permitted under the law, attempts to violate security restrictions or disrupt public order will not be tolerated. Authorities have appealed for calm and urged protesters to continue demonstrations within legal limits.
Traffic and Public Services Affected
The unrest caused major traffic disruptions across central Delhi. Several roads near Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street, and adjoining areas witnessed diversions, while commuters faced delays due to security checks and barricading.
Earlier security measures had also affected metro operations around key stations in central Delhi, with authorities taking precautionary steps to manage crowd movement and ensure public safety.
As night approached, security forces remained stationed across the protest zone while officials closely monitored developments. Authorities indicated that restrictions would remain in place until the situation returned to normal, with law enforcement continuing to assess the security environment and prevent any further escalation.
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