Delhi Pollution Protest Turns Tense with Maoist Slogans at India Gate
A protest intended to highlight the alarming pollution levels in Delhi took an unexpected turn on Monday afternoon, transforming into a tense confrontation between demonstrators and police officers. What began as a student-led environmental gathering near India Gate soon escalated into a politically charged incident with the chanting of Maoist slogans and allegations of extremist propaganda. The situation grew increasingly volatile, ultimately resulting in clashes, police injuries, and several arrests. This incident has now brought major attention nationwide, with many referring to it as the Delhi Pollution Protest Turns Tense with Maoist Slogans at India Gate due to the dramatic escalation and extremist slogans raised at the scene.
Delhi’s Air Quality Hits ‘Severe’ as Public Anger Escalates
Delhi woke up once again to suffocating smog and hazardous air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 400, officially placing the city in the “Severe” category. With pollution levels worsening day by day, schools across the capital were directed to remain closed, and health advisories urged residents to avoid outdoor activities. The mounting frustration over the government’s handling of the pollution crisis fueled a series of protests across the city.
While most demonstrations were peaceful, the one at India Gate stood out due to its sudden surge in crowd size, lack of official permission, and the nature of slogans raised. Authorities later confirmed that the protest was organized spontaneously through social media groups and primarily involved students from various colleges.
Slogans in Support of Maoist Commander Spark Alarm
What shocked both authorities and bystanders was the unexpected use of slogans praising Madvi Hidma, a senior CPI (Maoist) commander who was killed in an encounter on November 18. Demonstrators chanted “Comrade Hidma Amar Rahe”, a phrase commonly associated with far-left extremist groups.
Madvi Hidma, considered one of the most dangerous Maoist leaders in India, was accused of orchestrating several deadly attacks on security forces over the years. His involvement in major ambushes had made him a top target for counter-insurgency operations. Authorities fear that the chanting of his name in a public protest indicates attempts by certain groups to infiltrate and influence student-led movements.
Posters Linking Pollution to Development Models Raise Eyebrows
Several protesters displayed posters connecting India’s pollution crisis to what they described as flawed and exploitative development models. The posters criticized large-scale mining operations, deforestation, highway projects, and industrial expansion, suggesting that environmental degradation is a direct result of unchecked economic ambitions.
Some posters even questioned the government’s environmental policies, accusing authorities of prioritizing corporate interests over public health. While environmental activism is not new in Delhi, authorities believe that ideological elements may have attempted to steer the protest away from its original agenda.
Violence Breaks Out After Protesters Allegedly Use Chilli Spray
The situation spiraled out of control when police instructed the demonstrators to disperse due to the absence of permission for the gathering. According to officials, a few protesters resisted and allegedly used chilli spray against police personnel, causing eye irritation and injuries to several officers.
This sudden act of violence triggered immediate retaliation, with police clearing the area and removing protesters from the site. Videos circulating online show chaotic scenes of pushing, shouting, and officers struggling to control the crowd.
Over 15 Arrested, Facing Charges of Assault and Rioting
Police confirmed that 15 to 22 individuals have been detained so far. Those arrested face multiple charges, including:
- Unlawful assembly
- Blocking public roads
- Assault on public servants
- Rioting and violent conduct
- Use of harmful substances (chilli spray)
Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and that CCTV footage from the India Gate area is being reviewed to identify more individuals involved in the violence or the extremist slogans.
Security Tightened in Central Delhi
Following the incident, Delhi Police have increased surveillance and security measures around India Gate, Connaught Place, and other central zones. Authorities fear that similar unregulated gatherings may occur as pollution levels remain dangerously high and public dissatisfaction grows.
Government Urges Peace, Warns Against Extremist Influences
In a public statement, senior government officials urged citizens to continue voicing environmental concerns but emphasized the importance of lawful and peaceful protest. They warned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to “misuse pollution-related issues to promote extremist ideologies or disrupt public order.”
Environmental experts, meanwhile, reiterated that Delhi’s pollution crisis requires urgent and coordinated action. They stressed that the issue should not be muddled with political agendas or violence that diverts attention from the actual health emergency.
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