A tense situation unfolded at Jantar Mantar on Sunday morning as protesters attempting to march towards the Parliament clashed with the Rapid Action Force (RAF). The march, organized by the CJP, began despite the Delhi Police explicitly denying permission for the event, while the New Delhi district is currently under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which prohibits unauthorized gatherings and marches. Despite these legal restrictions, a large number of protesters gathered and attempted to break through the security cordons, leading to a direct confrontation with the security forces.
Delhi Police Denies Reports of Violence
In response to reports circulating in various media outlets, the Delhi Police issued a formal statement on the social media platform X. The police clarified that while there were minor scuffles, no major incidents of violence or mass detentions occurred. The statement emphasized that the protest is being handled in a professional manner. The authorities have urged the public not to pay attention to any rumors or misinformation regarding the situation. The Delhi Police has requested cooperation from all citizens to maintain peace and law and order in and around the Jantar Mantar area.
Massive Security Deployment and Barricading
The security arrangements between Jantar Mantar and the Parliament are extensive. A three-layer security barricading system has been established to prevent protesters from advancing, while currently, it's estimated that between 5,000 and 6,000 protesters are present at Jantar Mantar. To manage this crowd, more than 10,000 security personnel have been deployed at the site. The route from Jantar Mantar to the Parliament is equipped with specialized equipment, including tear gas canisters, batons, and Vajra vehicles (riot control vehicles). The implementation of Section 163 of the BNS means that gatherings of 5 or more people are strictly prohibited anywhere in the New Delhi district, except at the designated protest site at Jantar Mantar, and even there, prior permission is required.
Sonam Wangchuk Sets Conditions for Ending Fast
Amidst the ongoing protest, activist Sonam Wangchuk has outlined specific conditions for ending his hunger strike. He shared these conditions through a letter posted on social media, while the first condition demands that the government take full responsibility for recent failures in the education system, specifically mentioning issues like paper leaks. The second condition stipulates that Sonam Wangchuk and the leadership of the CJP be allowed to reach the Parliament, while the third condition requires that Members of Parliament and leaders from various political parties provide an assurance that they will raise these issues within the Parliament. Wangchuk added that if his health or other circumstances prevent him from being present, these leaders should visit him in the hospital to provide the necessary assurances regarding the points mentioned in his letter.
Legal Advisory and Restrictions
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Sachin Sharma issued a public advisory on X regarding the legal status of the march. He stated that the Delhi Police has not granted permission for any such protest march or procession. The advisory reiterated that prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS are in effect across the New Delhi district. Under these orders, there is a strict ban on protest marches, processions, demonstrations, and the assembly of 5 or more people, except at the designated spot in Jantar Mantar with prior approval. The police have appealed to the public to maintain law and order and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.