New Delhi, Jul 22 (ANI): Protesters in large numbers continue their protest at Jantar Mantar in support of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities and NEET paper leak, in New Delhi on Wednesday. (ANI Photo/Rahul Singh)
New Delhi: Fresh violence erupted in the national capital late in the night on July 22 after a protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) near Jantar Mantar escalated into clashes with Delhi Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel. The confrontation left at least five police personnel injured, including two Assistant Commissioners of Police, while authorities resorted to limited use of force and tear gas to disperse the crowd.
According to Delhi Police, the violence broke out around 8.30 pm near Tolstoy Marg in the Connaught Place area after a section of protesters allegedly began pelting stones and bottles at security personnel deployed in the vicinity. ACP Vivek Bhagat of the Connaught Place division sustained injuries during the attack and was shifted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital for treatment. Two inspectors and another police official were also injured in the incident.
Police officials said personnel had been stationed at the designated protest site as part of routine security arrangements. As demonstrators began moving towards Tolstoy Marg, the situation reportedly deteriorated, with some individuals allegedly turning violent and attacking the security forces.
Authorities said repeated attempts were made to calm the gathering before force was used. Senior police officers reportedly called CJP leaders and protest organisers to persuade demonstrators to maintain peace and disperse peacefully. However, officials alleged that sections of the crowd ignored these appeals and continued their aggressive behaviour.
As tensions escalated, police claimed that protesters hurled large stones and bottles at personnel on duty. Officials further alleged that some individuals in the crowd were carrying sticks, while others displayed swords and khukhris during the confrontation, prompting security forces to respond with limited force. The RAF and Delhi Police fired two to three tear gas shells before clearing the area.
In a serious allegation, Delhi Police claimed that one officer was surrounded by members of the crowd and assaulted repeatedly in what officials described as an attempt to lynch him. Police alleged that the attackers shouted provocative slogans while assaulting the officer and encouraged others to join the attack. These claims have not been independently verified.
Officials also said Wednesday’s violence marked the third consecutive day of clashes linked to the ongoing protests. According to police, anti-social elements have increasingly joined the demonstrations during evening hours, contributing to repeated confrontations with security personnel.
Following the clashes, heavy police deployment remained in place around Jantar Mantar, Tolstoy Marg and adjoining areas to prevent any further escalation. Authorities said the situation was brought under control later in the evening, though investigations into the incident are underway.
Police are expected to examine CCTV footage, videos circulating on social media and other evidence to identify those allegedly involved in the violence and attacks on security personnel. Cases are likely to be registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable laws.
