Delhi air pollution protest at India Gate turns chaotic; agitators use chilli spray on police

By Admin

24 Nov, 2025

A protest demanding urgent action against Delhi’s worsening air pollution spiralled into chaos on Sunday, after some demonstrators allegedly used chilli spray on police personnel while being removed from the India Gate area. The incident has intensified debate on the capital’s toxic air crisis and the growing frustration among citizens over inadequate government measures.

The protest, organised by the Delhi Coordination Committee for Clean Air, highlighted rising public anger over the city’s persistently “severe” air quality levels. In its statement, the group said Delhi’s worsening pollution has become a “serious risk” to public health, alleging that authorities have repeatedly failed to address the root causes of the crisis.

The organisation strongly criticised what it called the government’s reliance on "cosmetic measures" such as water sprinklers, cloud seeding, and spraying near AQI stations, instead of implementing long-term structural reforms.
The group added, “When the state makes the air itself poisonous, it becomes necessary for people to unite and raise their voices for their own survival.”

Clash Erupts at C-Hexagon, Police Injured

According to officials, tensions escalated near the C-Hexagon when protesters were informed that their demonstration was blocking ambulances and medical staff en route to emergency destinations. Despite repeated requests, the group allegedly refused to move.

A senior police officer explained, “We tried to explain to them that emergency vehicles were stuck and needed clear access, but they refused to move. The situation then turned into a scuffle, and some protesters used chilli powder on our personnel, which is unusual and rare.”

As the crowd broke through barricades and occupied the road, police attempted to disperse them. During the confrontation, several protestors reportedly attacked officers with chilli spray, leaving three to four personnel injured.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla told PTI, “This was very unusual. For the first time, protestors used pepper spray on officers managing traffic and law and order.” Injured officials are currently undergoing treatment at RML Hospital, and police confirmed that legal action has been initiated against those involved.

Activists Alleged Government Suppression

In addition to concerns over air pollution, the protesting group criticised broader national development policies including mining projects, forest clearance, and infrastructure expansion in fragile regions claiming these have intensified pollution, displaced vulnerable communities, and increased extreme weather events.

The Committee further alleged that when citizens attempt to voice environmental concerns, the government often “responds with suppression”, pointing to frequent detentions, restrictions, and efforts to silence activists.

A Crisis Demanding Long-Term Solutions

Delhi’s air quality crisis has persisted for years, with winter months commonly pushing AQI levels into the “severe” category. Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to such conditions increases risks of respiratory illness, cardiac complications, and long-term lung damage.

Sunday’s protest despite its chaotic turn reflects a larger sentiment: citizens are no longer willing to accept temporary or symbolic measures in the face of a public health emergency. The demand for sustainable, long-term solutions continues to grow, urging policymakers to rethink environmental priorities before the situation worsens further.