New Delhi [India], July 21 – Violent clashes broke out across central Delhi on Monday as thousands of protesters joined the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) planned march toward Parliament on the opening day of India’s Monsoon Session, prompting police to use batons and tear gas while detaining dozens of demonstrators.
The protest, led by CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, expanded far beyond its original gathering point at Jantar Mantar after supporters mobilized over the weekend following the removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from the protest site. Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike since June 28, was shifted from the venue on Saturday, drawing larger crowds in solidarity.
Authorities sealed all entry and exit points around Jantar Mantar before the march began, preventing protesters from moving toward Parliament. As thousands spilled onto surrounding roads, some breached police barricades, triggering clashes that included baton charges, stone-pelting and repeated rounds of tear gas.
The unrest spread across Raisina Road, Janpath, Ashoka Road, Connaught Place and the India Gate area, disrupting traffic and affecting access to several Delhi Metro stations. Internet services were also suspended in parts of central Delhi.
By late afternoon, security forces dismantled the protest site, removing tents, banners, the stage and other infrastructure while dispersing demonstrators. However, Dipke, CJP spokespersons and Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, continued a sit-in near Kerala House, vowing that the agitation would continue.
Despite the police operation, protesters returned to Jantar Mantar by evening and reoccupied the site after crossing barricades.
Delhi Police said around 70 protesters were detained and that a case was being registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws, including charges related to rioting and assault on public servants.
