NEW DELHI, JUL 22 (AGENCIES): Fresh clashes erupted between protesters and police on the third day of intensified demonstrations at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday, leaving five police personnel injured. Amid the unrest, media reports said internet services were suspended in parts of Central Delhi till 6 am Thursday, though there was no official confirmation.
Delhi Police said the violence broke out around 8.30 pm near Tolstoy Marg in Connaught Place when some protesters allegedly pelted stones and bottles at security personnel. Five policemen, including two Assistant Commissioners of Police, two inspectors and other personnel, were injured. Police said protest organisers were asked to persuade demonstrators to disperse, but they failed to do so. The situation later returned to normal.
Media reports claimed internet services were suspended within a 1.5-km radius of Jantar Mantar. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke shared a mobile message stating internet services had been temporarily stopped “as per government instructions” and questioned whether another crackdown was planned. Internet services had also been suspended on Monday during a protest march towards Parliament, drawing criticism from digital rights groups.
Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) reiterated it would hold talks with the government only at a neutral venue or at Jantar Mantar, rejecting an invitation to Union minister JP Nadda’s residence. CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said the party remained open to dialogue but insisted ministers should meet protesters. A senior government functionary said the Centre was prepared for serious engagement and urged flexibility over the meeting venue.
Addressing a press conference, Union Health minister JP Nadda accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of politicising the paper leak issue and urged Parliament to hold an intensive debate to find a permanent solution. He said the government was serious about the issue and remained open to further talks with protesting students.
Wangchuk’s condition to call off hunger strike
Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday said he would end his indefinite hunger strike if the Centre gives a clear assurance that no punitive action will be taken against students and youth who joined protests over alleged examination irregularities.
In a letter to Union ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh, Wangchuk said they had assured him the government would positively consider compensation for families of students who died by suicide after the alleged NEET paper leak and hold a meaningful parliamentary discussion on accountability, including considering Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.