As the protest organized by the CJP at Jantar Mantar escalated on Monday, tensions rose sharply with the Delhi police and state authorities taking a hardline approach against demonstrators from various regions, particularly a significant group from Maharashtra comprising over 650 students. The protesters accused the authorities of using excessive force, withholding basic necessities such as water, and specifically targeting individuals involved in the demonstration.
One participant described the situation, stating, “In the early hours, security forces deployed water cannons to break up the gathering. Food and water supplies were intentionally halted, leaving protesters without vital resources for extended periods.”
Budhiraj Torne, a student from Mumbai University, expressed his frustrations, noting, “The drinking water supply has been cut off. Supplies of food and drinks sent from across the country have been intercepted by the Delhi police and SRPF. Hundreds of students engaged in a hunger strike are now suffering due to the lack of water… We are receiving government notifications about an internet shutdown on our devices, WhatsApp is down, and Meta has restricted our ability to post on Instagram. The brutal beatings by the Delhi police have resulted in injuries to women and minors.”
Sushma, a protestor from Pune, highlighted the challenges posed by the heavy police presence, remarking, “The level of policing was so intense that it was difficult to find cabs, and metro services were not stopping at the nearest stations to Jantar Mantar, preventing many from reaching the protest.”
Students reported that the police response became violent, with numerous demonstrators reportedly assaulted during the dispersal efforts. Ayesha, a member of AISF, stated, “The police are attacking anyone present at Jantar Mantar. They are employing water cannons, and the internet has been disabled, making it impossible to share updates. Tear gas was also deployed.”
Leaders among the students characterized the police’s actions as “inhumane” and a breach of the right to peaceful assembly. Torne added, “The police were obstructing my movements everywhere; I managed to get close to the Parliament building. My phone was inundated with government alerts, preventing me from communicating with my fellow activists and protesters. Despite these challenges, we will persist in our march.”
Student organizations have strongly denounced the authorities’ actions, calling for an impartial investigation. They are demanding the immediate resumption of access to water and food, the release of detained students, and an end to what they consider the criminalization of dissent.
