Violent Clashes Erupt as Delhi Air Pollution Protest Takes Unexpected Turn with Maoist Slogans

Police officials reported that protesters gathered without authorization in the middle of the roadway at India Gate.

New Delhi:

A demonstration against Delhi's toxic air quality at India Gate on Sunday evening descended into violence when certain protesters allegedly attacked police officers with chilli spray as authorities attempted to clear the area. The situation escalated further when a segment of demonstrators began chanting slogans in support of Madvi Hidma, a prominent Maoist leader killed in an Andhra Pradesh encounter earlier this month, which has now triggered legal proceedings.

According to police statements, the protesters occupied the road at India Gate without proper permission for approximately one hour, displaying posters and chanting slogans. When law enforcement personnel intervened and requested the demonstrators to disperse, the situation reportedly turned hostile. Protesters allegedly broke through barricades and deployed chilli spray, resulting in injuries to several police officers.

The chilli and pepper sprays used by protesters left three to four police personnel requiring medical attention.

Officials confirmed that the injured officers are currently receiving treatment at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital.

During the police effort to disperse the crowd, some individuals were heard shouting "Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe" (Long Live Madvi Hidma). One demonstrator was observed holding a sign stating: "From Birsa Munda to Madvi Hidma, the struggle of our forests and environment will go on".

Hidma, eliminated in an encounter on November 18, was implicated in at least 26 armed assaults against security forces and civilians. His notorious operations included the 2010 Dantewada attack that claimed 76 CRPF personnel, the 2013 Jhiram Ghati ambush resulting in 27 fatalities including senior Congress leaders, and the 2021 Sukma-Bijapur ambush that killed 22 security personnel.

Law enforcement has detained 22 individuals in connection with the incident—six are being held at the Kartavyapath police station and the remaining 17 at the Parliament Street police station.

"We have registered an FIR under various provisions, including charges related to the use of force against police, road blockades, and the deployment of chilli spray," stated Deputy Commissioner of Police, Devesh Kumar Mahla.

Authorities have also assured that individuals who shouted Maoist slogans will face consequences. "Those responsible for such slogans at India Gate will be identified and appropriate legal action will follow. We are proceeding with legal measures in this matter," the DCP confirmed.

BJP Condemns Protesters

Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra criticized the violent protests, alleging that 'Jihadis' and Maoists are now "assuming the guise of social activists".

"Examine the truth behind yesterday's Delhi protests. They displayed anti-pollution placards while chanting 'Lal Salaam' (Red Salute—a communist greeting). Jihadis and Naxalites are now masquerading as social activists. Delhi has responded appropriately to such ideology," he stated in a post on X.