Delhi Police arrested 22 protesters on Monday after a violent demonstration against toxic air at India Gate.
The protesters allegedly used chilli spray on officers deployed at the site, sparking a scuffle that left several personnel injured.
Officials confirmed that the arrests followed immediate legal action for assaulting government servants on duty. Police registered two separate FIRs at Kartavyapath Police Station and Parliament Street Police Station in connection with the incident.
The Delhi Coordination Committee for Clean Air organised the protest to highlight worsening air quality in the capital. Members claimed that Delhi’s air remained in the “severe” category and criticised authorities for relying on what they described as “cosmetic measures.” These included water sprinklers, cloud seeding, and spraying near Air Quality Index (AQI) stations.
Protesters argued that such short-term steps failed to address the root causes of pollution. They demanded meaningful long-term solutions to safeguard public health.
The demonstration escalated when participants clashed with police, leading to the use of chilli spray against officers. Authorities reported multiple injuries and emphasised the need for strict enforcement of law and order during public gatherings.
The arrests reignited debate over Delhi’s pollution crisis and the government’s response. Citizens expressed frustration over recurring hazardous air levels, while activists insisted that stronger policies were essential to combat the capital’s environmental emergency.
Delhi Police stated that investigations would continue to identify additional offenders and ensure accountability. The incident underscored the growing tension between public health concerns and administrative measures in India’s most polluted city.
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