A protest against Delhi’s deteriorating air quality at India Gate escalated into chaos, leading to the arrest of several demonstrators after some allegedly used chilli spray on police personnel attempting to clear the blocked road.
The demonstration also took a contentious turn when a section of protesters displayed posters and shouted slogans in support of slain Maoist commander Madvi Hidma, who was recently killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh. Authorities have registered a case and initiated legal proceedings against those involved in the violence.
Here are the key developments of the Delhi air pollution protests:
Protester Arrest: Delhi Police has arrested over 15 people for allegedly refusing to disperse during a protest on Sunday against the rising pollution in the national capital.
Chilli Spray Used: The protestors who held their agitation at the C hexagon on India Gate, allegedly used chilli spray on police personnel, obstructing official work and blocking the road, police said.
Slogan For Madvi Hidma: A group of people raised slogans supporting Madvi Hidma, a top Maoist leader who was killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh, which led to the legal action legal action.
On Monday, the Ghazipur area recorded an AQI of 441. AQI of Anand Vihar stood at 440 on Monday morning, which falls under the 'Severe' pollution category.A layer of toxic smog blanketed the city around India Gate this morning. Bawana recorded an AQI of 434 at 7 am, placing it in the 'severe' category. In contrast, NSIT Dwarka recorded an AQI of 322, according to the data by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
