Delhi's Jantar Mantar is buzzing with activity once again. Police had emptied out the entire stretch on Monday after a massive clash, but by late night protesters began regrouping and a stage was set up all over again. This time, police made no attempt to stop anyone from gathering. Officers have made clear that peaceful demonstrators will not be obstructed, but anyone caught creating trouble will face strict action.
Talks Now Happen Only at Jantar Mantar, Protesters Say
Even as the overnight demonstration continued, leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) held a meeting with Union Minister JP Nadda. A CJP spokesperson said the government has assured it will consider their demands. But the mood among protesters camped at Jantar Mantar told a different story. Abhijeet Deepke, who stayed at the site through the night, declared, "Whoever wants to talk should come to Jantar Mantar now, there will be no more talks with the government." The contrast is telling: while the party leadership and the government appear to be edging toward dialogue, the demonstrators on the ground are sticking to their own, separate stand. It suggests the protest no longer has a single, unified command.
Security Tightened on Roads Leading to Parliament House
Protesters have rebuilt their stage at Jantar Mantar, and in response police have significantly stepped up deployment. Roads leading in and out of Jantar Mantar remain open for now, but security has been tightened specifically on the stretches heading towards Parliament House. The reason is police apprehension that protesters could attempt another march towards Parliament today, echoing what unfolded on Monday. Several opposition leaders are also expected to arrive at Jantar Mantar today, adding another layer for police to manage. Overall, the force is operating in an extremely alert mode, preparing to handle any situation that arises.
70 Detained Over Violence, CCTV Footage Used to Identify Rioters
Delhi Police have stepped up action over Monday's stone pelting, vehicle vandalism and assaults on police personnel. After registering separate FIRs over the attacks on officers and the injuries they sustained, police are now scanning CCTV footage to identify those behind the rioting. So far, 70 people have been detained in connection with the violence and the protest. During Monday evening's unrest, more than 118 police and paramilitary personnel, including 10 IPS and Delhi Police officers, were injured in attacks by rioters embedded in the protest. Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar personally visited the hospital to meet the injured personnel. The force's priority now is to unmask the individuals who used the cover of a peaceful demonstration to pelt stones and cause chaos.
Sonam Wangchuk to Continue His Fast
Amid all this, activist Sonam Wangchuk has made clear that his hunger strike will not stop. Wangchuk said, "I will continue my fast until young leaders are allowed to meet MPs inside Parliament House." He added that he would also consider ending the fast if he himself were permitted to meet MPs at the hospital where he is currently being treated. Wangchuk said he hopes the government fixes accountability on the education minister, and that he will not back down until that happens. He said he is deeply moved and impressed by how the young protesters maintained peace despite provocation. Wangchuk appealed to both the government and the police to resolve the standoff by simply allowing students to place their grievances before Parliament today or tomorrow. He expressed confidence that the young protesters would show the same patience and restraint going forward that they have shown so far.
