Clashes broke out between supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar on Monday as protesters attempted to begin the party's proposed "Chalo Sansad" march on the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session. The confrontation followed the police's refusal to grant permission for the march and the imposition of restrictions on large gatherings in central Delhi amid heightened security.
According to initial reports, a large number of CJP supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar from the morning hours before attempting to move towards Parliament. As the crowd swelled, police personnel deployed at multiple barricades tried to stop the procession, leading to clashes between protesters and security forces. Videos from the scene showed chaotic scenes as police used batons to disperse sections of the crowd after demonstrators pushed through barricades.
Delhi Police had denied permission for the Parliament march on Sunday, citing security concerns and prohibitory restrictions in the area. Authorities deployed heavy security around Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street and other parts of central Delhi, with barricades, riot control vehicles and additional police personnel stationed at key locations to prevent the march from proceeding.
Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike, Seeks Dialogue As CJP Protest Reaches Day 25
The CJP had called for the "Chalo Sansad" march as part of its ongoing agitation over alleged irregularities in national entrance examinations and other demands. The protest gained further attention after activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike and subsequent hospitalisation, while CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke appealed to supporters to maintain a peaceful demonstration despite the absence of official permission for the march.
As tensions escalated, both sides accused each other of provoking the confrontation. Protest organisers maintained that the march was intended to remain peaceful, while the police said security measures had been put in place to maintain law and order and prevent an unauthorised procession from reaching Parliament. Authorities continued to monitor the situation as security remained tightened across the national capital.
The situation at Jantar Mantar remained fluid at the time of writing, with police maintaining a strong presence and protesters continuing to gather despite restrictions. Further developments, including any detentions, injuries or changes in the protest's course, were awaited as events unfolded in central Delhi.
Also Read: Uddhav Thackeray Announces Support for CJP Protest, Appeals to Wangchuk to End Hunger Strike