NEW DELHI — Police used batons to disperse protesters during a demonstration at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday as a group attempted to march towards Parliament, according to reports from police and media outlets. The protest, organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), was held over demands linked to alleged examination irregularities and calls for accountability from the government.
Delhi Police had not granted permission for the planned march to Parliament and imposed restrictions in the New Delhi district, officials said. Security personnel, including Delhi Police and Rapid Action Force units, were deployed around Jantar Mantar and along routes leading towards Parliament as protesters gathered.
Reports from the scene said police used lathis, or batons, after some protesters attempted to move beyond barricades placed to restrict the march. Videos circulated from the area showed clashes between security personnel and demonstrators, though the circumstances leading to the use of force were disputed.
Delhi Police said the demonstration was being managed under security restrictions and that protesters did not have approval for the march. The force has said prohibitory orders remained in place in the New Delhi area, with authorities citing security concerns around Parliament during its Monsoon Session.
The CJP protesters were demanding action over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and had called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The group has also raised concerns over the impact of examination-related disputes on students.
The protest caused disruption in parts of central Delhi, with authorities tightening security measures and closing several metro stations in preparation for the march, according to reports.
The use of force drew criticism from some protesters and supporters, while police maintained that measures were taken to control the situation and prevent an unauthorised movement towards restricted areas. Independent confirmation of injuries or the total number of people detained was not immediately available.
Authorities continued monitoring the situation around Jantar Mantar and nearby areas, with security arrangements remaining in place as officials assessed further developments.
