Jantar Mantar protests, 5 detained trying to break barricades

mangaloretoday.com/NDTV

New Delhi, Dec 30: Protests on crime against women took an ugly turn this afternoon at Jantar Mantar, in the heart of the capital, when a group of around 50 people, who reportedly infiltrated the peaceful protest, tried to break down barricades set up by police. Five people have been detained so far in the case.

Hundreds of protesters had gathered to mourn the death of the 23-year-old medical student who was cremated on Sunday morning. Comprising mostly students, they were demanding tougher anti-rape laws.

 

 

According to reports, at around 1 pm a group affiliated to a political party tried to storm the iron barricades and clash with the police. Police immediately swung into action to contain them. However they restrained from using force to disperse the unruly group.

One of the protesters alleged that some political elements are trying to infiltrate and hijack the movement. He said, "Some of these youth political parties who are coming here have their vested interests. They are the hooligans. We are disappointed. For the past week we have tried to build this movement. They are actually trying to make this movement die."

Heavy security is in place at Jantar Mantar where the protest is being held. Police have imposed prohibitory orders around India Gate and Raisina Hill and barricaded all roads leading to the area, as well as shutting down several Metro stations in central Delhi.