Delhi Court sends 17 protesters to three days Judicial custody over India Gate demonstration

A Delhi court on Monday remanded 17 individuals, including 11 women, to three days’ judicial custody in connection with alleged violence during a pollution-related protest at India Gate. The accused were arrested on charges of assaulting police personnel and conspiring to commit offences against the State.

Judicial Magistrate Sahil Monga noted that the accusations were “serious” and that the investigation is still in its early stages. The court observed that identity verification of several accused persons is pending and that digital and electronic evidence has yet to be fully analyzed.

The protest, held near India Gate, reportedly demanded stricter enforcement of pollution control measures, immediate government intervention to reduce hazardous air quality levels, and accountability of agencies responsible for environmental protection. The demonstrators also called for emergency health support for citizens affected by severe pollution and long-term policy reforms to combat air pollution.

Police officials said participants were repeatedly instructed to disperse as the gathering did not have permission and was in violation of prohibitory orders in the area. According to authorities, some protesters allegedly blocked the road, ignored warnings, and engaged in altercations with police personnel. Law enforcement claimed that when officers attempted to remove barricades and restore order, certain demonstrators used force, leading to minor injuries to some officials.

Following the incident, police detained the protesters, collected video recordings, and secured electronic evidence from nearby surveillance cameras. The court, citing the need for further investigation, allowed the judicial custody of the accused while also directing authorities to complete pending procedural formalities including identity verification.

The matter will be heard again after the completion of the custodial period.