Over 15 Held as Protesters Use Chilli Spray on Police During India Gate Demonstration

Delhi : Delhi Police have arrested more than 15 protesters who allegedly refused to disperse during a demonstration against rising pollution in the national capital on Sunday.

According to officials, the protesters, who had gathered at the C-Hexagon near India Gate, allegedly used chilli spray on police personnel, obstructed official duties, and blocked the road.

Police stated, “An FIR has been registered and over 15 individuals have been arrested for using chilli spray on police personnel, obstructing official work, and blocking the road. Relevant sections have been invoked.”

New Delhi DCP Devesh Kumar Mahla noted that this is the first instance of chilli spray being used against police during such an agitation.

He explained that some protesters gathered inside the C-Hexagon, broke police barricades, entered the road, and sat there despite repeated requests to move—especially as ambulances and medical teams were stuck behind them. While attempting to remove them to prevent traffic disruption, several protesters clashed with police, injuring multiple personnel.

“For the first time, chilli spray was used against our officers. Several policemen were sprayed in the eyes and are now undergoing treatment at RML Hospital. Legal action is underway,” the official added.

Visuals from the protest showed participants holding posters of Maoist commander Madvi Hidma, recently killed in an encounter. Police said the group attempted to block the road and attacked officers with pepper spray when efforts were made to disperse them.

A similar protest was held at the same spot on November 9, where demands were raised for stronger anti-pollution policies in the NCR.

Meanwhile, Delhi woke up to a thick layer of smog on Monday. The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 396 at 7 am, in the “very poor” category, despite GRAP-III restrictions across the region.

CPCB data showed severe pollution levels across several areas: Ghazipur recorded an AQI of 441, Anand Vihar 440, and Bawana 434. In contrast, NSIT Dwarka recorded a slightly lower AQI of 322. Toxic haze was also visible around AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital, ITO, Mayur Vihar, and Akshardham Temple.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, Delhi’s air quality is likely to remain in the “very poor” category from November 23 to 26.