Indian police clash with protesters in “Cockroach” march

New Delhi – On Thursday, Indian police intervened in a demonstration organized by the “Cockroach” march movement, using batons and tear‑gas canisters to disperse participants gathered outside the central police headquarters. Video footage released on social media showed officers striking several demonstrators, while officials confirmed that at least 45 protesters were detained and three individuals were treated for minor injuries at nearby medical facilities. The protest, which began at 10 a.m., was intended to draw attention to what organizers describe as “systemic neglect of marginalized communities” and to demand the resignation of local officials implicated in recent land‑acquisition controversies.

Police spokesperson Anil Kumar told reporters that the crowd “turned violent” after attempts at dialogue failed, prompting the use of force in accordance with standard operating procedures. He added that the detained individuals would face charges related to unlawful assembly and public disorder. The “Cockroach” march, named after a colloquial term the activists use to describe perceived bureaucratic indifference, has been active in several Indian states over the past month, staging sit‑ins and rallies that have occasionally clashed with law‑enforcement agencies.

Human‑rights groups have called for an independent inquiry into the incident, urging authorities to ensure that any use of force complies with national and international standards. As the situation remains under review, the protest leaders have announced plans to reconvene later this week, while the police have indicated they will monitor further gatherings closely. The episode adds to ongoing debates over protest rights and police accountability in India.