Delhi erupts as protesters clash with police over exam irregularities

New Delhi transformed into a battlefield as tens of thousands of protesters clashed with police during a march towards Parliament, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam. Police responded with tear gas and batons to disperse the agitated crowds, who had scaled barricades, bringing large parts of the capital to a standstill.

Despite extensive security measures, including barricaded roads, closed metro stations, and suspended internet services, activists, students, and professionals converged at Jantar Mantar. By afternoon, pitched battles erupted between protesters and police in various parts of the city, with areas like Connaught Place and India Gate resembling a "war zone," according to eyewitnesses and reporters.

In the evening, police managed to clear protesters from Jantar Mantar, dismantling their stage. However, activist Sonam Wangchuk vowed to continue his hunger strike, and the Cockroach Janata Party pledged to mobilize again. CJP leaders returned to the protest site late at night, vowing to persist despite the site's electricity being cut off.

Delhi Police stated that protesters exhibited violent behavior, throwing stones and objects at officers and violating prohibitory orders. The police reported lodging first information reports for rioting, assault on public servants, and damage to public property. They confirmed detaining approximately 70 individuals and reported that at least 118 police personnel sustained injuries. The statement also noted vandalism to around 15-20 vehicles and government property.

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Police have been absolutely brutal