World · India Bureau
Delhi police detention buses sweep up protesters, journalists, bystanders
Sweeping operations in the national capital resulted in the indiscriminate detention of demonstrators, media personnel, and uninvolved office workers, raising concerns over police conduct during crowd control operations.
LSN India ·

Detention operations in Delhi resulted in the broad-based apprehension of individuals during recent law enforcement actions in the city. According to accounts from those affected, police buses used in the operations picked up not only protest participants but also journalists covering events and office workers caught in proximity to demonstrations.
The indiscriminate nature of the detentions has sparked concerns among civil liberties groups and media organizations regarding the protocols followed during such operations. The inclusion of journalists and uninvolved civilians among those taken into custody raises questions about the distinction authorities made between protesters and bystanders.
Media representatives expressed particular concern about the detention of press personnel engaged in their professional duties. Such incidents have prompted discussion about the need for clearer guidelines to protect journalists during public order operations and to ensure that detention practices adhere to established legal procedures.
The operations reflect ongoing tensions between law enforcement and protest management in India's capital, where demonstrations frequently occur. Civil society observers have called for review of police detention procedures to ensure they comply with constitutional safeguards and do not sweep up individuals uninvolved in unlawful activities.