TNI Bureau: The national capital witnessed one of its most intense protest confrontations in recent times on Monday as the ‘Chalo Sansad’ march descended into violence, triggering pitched battles between protesters and police near Parliament. Tear gas shells were fired, baton charges carried out, and stone-pelting reported as thousands attempted to march towards Parliament despite prohibitory orders.

According to Delhi Police, more than 50 police personnel were injured after protesters allegedly breached barricades and resorted to stone-pelting. Over 70 people were detained, while multiple FIRs have been registered in connection with the violence. Police maintained that force was used only after demonstrators attempted to break security cordons around the high-security zone.

Protest organisers, however, accused the police of using excessive force, alleging indiscriminate lathi charges and tear gas against demonstrators. They claimed 40–50 of protesters sustained injuries, though independent confirmation of the exact figure was not immediately available. Protest leaders also alleged that women and minors were among those injured during the crackdown, allegations denied by the Delhi Police.

The demonstration, backed by supporters of the youth-led movement demanding accountability over repeated examination paper leaks and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, had drawn thousands to central Delhi on the opening day of Parliament’s Monsoon Session. Authorities had imposed restrictions and deployed heavy security around Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street and adjoining areas in anticipation of the march.

As barricades were pushed aside at several locations, clashes broke out, bringing traffic to a standstill and turning parts of Lutyens’ Delhi into a virtual battleground. Protesters accused the government of suppressing democratic dissent, while the police defended their action as necessary to maintain law and order and protect Parliament’s security.

The violent scenes have intensified the political confrontation surrounding the ongoing agitation, with opposition leaders condemning the police action and the Centre asserting that public order cannot be compromised. The situation remained tense late into the evening, with security forces maintaining a heavy presence across central Delhi.