Protesters Use Chilli Spray on Police During Delhi air Pollution Presentation

Protesters demonstrating at India Gate over rising air pollution in delhi-NCR allegedly attacked police personnel with chilli spray while being removed from the site on Sunday, according to officials.

Protest and Initial Confrontation

The protesters had gathered near India Gate to demand action on DelhiS ‘very poor’ air quality. Police intervened to remove the demonstrators after they assembled at the site. During the removal process, a tense situation unfolded as protesters attempted to breach barricades.

A senior officer explained that protesters entered the C-hexagon and tried to cross the barricades. “We tried to explain to them that many ambulances and medical personnel were stuck behind them and required emergency access, but they got very agitated,” the officer said.

Police advised the protesters to step back, anticipating a potential scuffle. However, the protesters refused, broke through the barricade, and sat on the road, obstructing traffic.

Use of Chilli Spray and Injuries

As police attempted to remove the protesters, some retaliated by using chilli spray against the officers. Three to four police personnel sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital.

“They refused, broke the barricade, came onto the road, and sat there. When our teams were trying to remove them, some of the protesters attacked police personnel using chilli spray. Three to four personnel sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment,” the officer stated.

first Instance of Chilli Spray Use Against Police

Deputy Commissioner of Police (new Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla described the incident as highly unusual. According to PTI, Mahla stated, “This was very unusual. For the first time, protestors used chilli spray on officers managing traffic and law and order.”

Mahla further noted that this is the first time police personnel have encountered pepper spray during a crowd control operation. “A few of our officers were sprayed in the eyes and face and are currently receiving treatment at RML Hospital. Legal action is being taken in this regard,” he added.

Traffic Disruption and Aftermath

The protesters were eventually removed from the C-hexagon to restore traffic flow. Authorities are taking legal action against those involved in the attack on police personnel.

Key Takeaways

• Protesters demonstrating against air pollution in Delhi used chilli spray against police officers.
• this is the first recorded instance of protesters using chilli spray against police during a crowd control operation in Delhi.
• Several police personnel were injured and are receiving medical treatment at RML Hospital.
• Legal action is being taken against the protesters involved in the attack.

this incident highlights the escalating tensions surrounding the issue of air pollution in Delhi and the challenges faced by law enforcement during protests. Further developments are expected as investigations proceed and authorities address the ongoing concerns about air quality in the region.