A student-led protest against Delhi&rsquo;s worsening pollution spiralled into confrontation on Monday, with police detaining 15 demonstrators near the C-hexagon and alleging that some participants used pepper spray on officers. Police said an FIR has been filed for obstructing public duty, adding that several detained youth are undergoing medical checks at Parliament Street Police Station.
According to officials, the protesters attempted to breach barricades despite repeated warnings, blocking the route for ambulances and medical teams. &ldquo;They became agitated and broke through the barricades, forcing us to intervene,&rdquo; an officer said. Three to four policemen were treated after experiencing irritation from what police described as pepper spray used by the group.
The clash comes amid escalating public anger over toxic air, with major NCR cities reporting AQI levels between 350 and 400, and several Delhi pockets slipping into the &lsquo;severe&rsquo; category. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management has tightened restrictions, shifting several GRAP Stage IV measures into Stage III, including staggered work timings and increased public transport frequency to curb emissions.
The Delhi government has also asked private offices to operate with 50% on-site staff as visibility dips and health warnings intensify. The latest detentions echo similar action on November 9, when citizens demanding urgent pollution control measures were removed from India Gate during a &ldquo;clean air protest&rdquo;.

Delhi Pollution Protest Turns Chaotic, 15 Detained

Police allege protesters used pepper spray; FIR filed as Delhi battles hazardous air

Delhi Pollution Protest Turns Chaotic, 15 Detained

Police allege protesters used pepper spray; FIR filed as Delhi battles hazardous air

November 24, 2025 | 16:17 IST