CJP Protesters Clash with Police at Jantar Mantar; Several Personnel Injured, Tear Gas Fired New Delhi:

Fresh clashes erupted between Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protesters and Delhi Police near Jantar Mantar on Wednesday, leaving several police personnel injured and prompting security forces to use tear gas shells and limited force to disperse the crowd. The violence marked the latest escalation in the ongoing agitation over alleged examination irregularities and demands for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. According to Delhi Police, protesters turned aggressive during the demonstration, with some allegedly pelting stones, throwing bottles, and snatching batons from security personnel. Police said at least five to six officers, including two Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs), sustained injuries in the clashes. In response, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and police personnel fired tear gas shells and carried out a baton charge to bring the situation under control. The CJP, however, alleged that the police used excessive force against demonstrators and claimed that the protest was disrupted by outsiders. Party leaders accused the authorities of carrying out an unprovoked lathi-charge on protesters, while maintaining that their movement was intended to remain peaceful. Following the unrest, heavy security was deployed across the Jantar Mantar area, with barricades reinforced and internet services temporarily suspended in parts of central Delhi as a precautionary measure. Authorities appealed to the public to avoid the affected area until normalcy was restored. The protests, which have continued for several weeks, centre on demands for accountability over alleged examination irregularities and broader education reforms. Earlier this week, thousands of demonstrators attempted to march towards Parliament, leading to confrontations with police and widespread disruption in central Delhi. The latest violence has further intensified the political debate surrounding the protests. While opposition leaders have criticised the police response and called for an independent inquiry into the use of force, Delhi Police has defended its actions, stating that it acted to maintain public order after protesters allegedly resorted to violence. As tensions remain high, security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely. The clashes underscore the challenge of balancing the right to peaceful protest with the responsibility of maintaining law and order in the national capital, particularly around sensitive government and parliamentary zones.