Delhi Police Intensifies Investigation Following Violent Protests at Jantar Mantar

Violence Erupts at Jantar Mantar

A significant outbreak of violence occurred near Jantar Mantar, resulting in injuries to over 100 police personnel, including Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anand Kumar Mishra. In response, the Delhi Police announced on Tuesday that extensive electronic surveillance and investigations by multiple agencies are currently underway. DCP Mishra detailed the injuries sustained by officers while attempting to maintain law and order, stating that approximately 115 to 120 police officers were hurt, with several senior officials also injured, including himself. An investigation is ongoing, and FIRs are being filed. Further legal actions will be determined based on the findings of the investigation, although specific details cannot be disclosed at this time.

Ongoing Investigations and Surveillance

DCP Mishra emphasized that law enforcement agencies are meticulously examining all digital evidence related to the protests. He noted that multiple FIRs have already been filed following the demonstration, with more expected. Surveillance is being conducted on over 100 CCTV cameras installed in and around Jantar Mantar. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is already investigating the matter under the supervision of senior officials, and social media accounts are also being monitored. As of Monday, the Delhi Police have registered five FIRs concerning the alleged violence, stone-pelting, and vandalism that occurred during the protest. The police are also probing whether the violence was part of a premeditated conspiracy, analyzing over 250 videos to identify those involved.

Legal Actions Taken

According to police sources, these FIRs have been filed at the Parliament Street and Connaught Place police stations under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 2023, the Arms Act of 1959, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act (PDPP Act). One FIR was lodged for allegedly flying a drone without permission during the parliamentary session in the New Delhi district. Another FIR related to the alleged conspiracy of violence has revealed several crucial pieces of evidence during the police investigation. Additional FIRs have been filed for obstructing government work, assaulting police officers, and damaging property. The FIR registered at the Parliament Street police station includes several sections of the IPC, such as Section 223(b), which pertains to disobeying orders issued by a government employee or obstructing government work; Section 221, which relates to interfering with or affecting a government employee's work; and Section 132, which involves using force or criminal violence to prevent a government employee from performing their duties.