Delhi rally backs police amid uproar over Maoist slogans
Delhi rally backs police amid uproar over Maoist slogans
Pro-police demonstrators gather at India Gate as 22 protestors are arrested for pro-Maoist chants during an air-pollution march, with new charges tied to national integration.
A group of people gathered at India Gate in solidarity with the Delhi police a day after 22 people were arrested for allegedly shouting pro-Maoist slogans during a march against rising air pollution in the capital.
Videos circulating online appeared to show some protesters praising Maoist leader Hidma, prompting Delhi Law Minister Kapil Mishra to claim the demonstration had been misused to glorify the figure killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh earlier this month. Mishra posted a video on X suggesting that jihadists and naxalites were masquerading as social activists.
Police have filed FIRs against those arrested and invoked a new offense under Section 197 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) — imputations and assertions prejudicial to national integration. Officials said the charges would be linked to those carrying posters or shouting such slogans once the chargesheet is prepared. The 22 individuals are booked under these sections, with further actions possible depending on the investigation.
Delhi’s air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with officials indicating it could stay that way for at least three days. District magistrates, deputy commissioners of police, and local bodies are enforcing a work-from-home directive, asking 50% of staff in Delhi offices to work remotely. Enforcing agencies will implement this directive as part of ongoing efforts to curb pollution.
The day’s events underscore the tension between upholding protest rights and maintaining public order, as authorities seek to balance environmental protests with national security concerns amid a charged political climate.
Cover image source: Protesters hold rally in support of Delhi Police amid outrage over ‘Maoist slogans’ 🔗
