Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Nov 24: A day after a protest against rising air pollution at India Gate spiralled into violence, the Delhi Police arrested 22 people and registered two FIRs in connection with the incident that left several police personnel injured.
The chaos erupted on Sunday evening when a group of activists gathered at India Gate’s C-Hexagon to demonstrate against deteriorating air quality — a protest held without official permission. According to police, when officers attempted to disperse the group, the protesters allegedly used pepper spray, injuring multiple personnel who were later rushed to RML Hospital.
Officials said that after the protesters were removed from the spot and taken to Parliament Street Police Station, they reportedly engaged in another scuffle with escorting officers.
Police are also probing whether some protesters carried posters of Maoist commander Madvi Hidma, recently killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh. Videos circulating on social media purportedly show a few individuals holding posters of Hidma and allegedly raising slogans in his support.
DCP (New Delhi) Devesh Mahla said the accused had used chilli powder and assaulted police personnel, leading to their arrest. On whether Hidma’s posters were part of the protest, he said, “We are probing it.”
The first FIR, registered at Kartavya Path Police Station, includes charges under Sections 74, 79, 115(2), 132, 221 and 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Six people have been arrested under this FIR.
The second FIR, filed at Parliament Street Police Station, invokes Sections 223A, 132, 221, 121A and 126(2) of the BNS, dealing with disobedience to orders, assault on public servants, obstruction of duty, conspiracy against the State and wrongful restraint.
Police said further investigation is underway to ascertain the motive behind the protest and the extent of organised involvement.