CJP Protest: Violence erupts near Jantar Mantar again as protesters pelt stones; several police personnel injured

New Delhi: A fierce clash broke out between protesters and the police on Wednesday night during the ongoing demonstration at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Around 8:30 PM, a group of agitators attacked the police in the area between Tolstoy Marg and Sansad Marg, near Jantar Mantar. About a dozen police personnel and RAF (Rapid Action Force) jawans, including an ACP, were injured in the attack. According to the Delhi Police, this group of protesters suddenly arrived at Tolstoy Marg and began pelting stones at the police and RAF personnel already deployed there. Some of the violent agitators were armed with swords, sticks, stones, and *khukris* (curved knives).

Following this, RAF and police teams swung into action. Additional security forces were summoned to the scene, and the agitators—who were hurling stones and bottles at security personnel—were chased away as police used lathis (batons) against them. Tear gas shells also had to be fired during the incident. Some protesters used sticks to attack the security personnel; however, the agitators fled the scene when the security forces retaliated. In light of the situation, additional teams from the Delhi Police and RAF have been deployed at the site.

What did the Delhi Police say?

According to the Delhi Police, around a dozen police personnel and RAF jawans sustained injuries during the violence. The injured include two Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs), two inspectors, and other police personnel. All the injured were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for first aid. The ACP of Connaught Place was also injured when the mob of agitators suddenly attacked the police with stones and bottles; a senior officer personally took him to RML Hospital. The police administration is appealing to the public to maintain peace.

Did agitators brandish swords and 'khukris'?

The police have also claimed that some protesters were seen brandishing swords and *khukris* during the violence. Consequently, security forces exercised extra vigilance and took necessary measures to control the crowd. Police have reported receiving intelligence indicating that anti-social elements are infiltrating the crowd at night.

The situation is becoming increasingly tense due to the presence of these outside anti-social elements. Although the situation on Tolstoy Marg and in the surrounding areas is now reported to be under control, a heavy deployment of Delhi Police and RAF personnel has been established in the area. Police are repeatedly using loudspeakers to urge protesters to maintain peace. Meanwhile, the police are investigating the entire incident and working to identify those involved in the violence.

Did Abhijit Deepke Announce Continuation of Jantar Mantar Protest?

Meanwhile, Abhijit Deepke, who has been protesting continuously at Jantar Mantar, has made it clear that the protest will continue until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. He stated that Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike would not go in vain; therefore, the protest will persist until the government accepts their demands.