Delhi Air Pollution Protest Turns Violent as Slogans for Maoist Leader Madvi Hidma Surface

New Delhi, November 24, 2025 – A protest against Delhi’s worsening air quality turned violent on Sunday at India Gate, with slogans supporting Maoist leader Madvi Hidma sparking outrage. The demonstration, intended to highlight toxic air in the national capital, escalated after some participants raised posters and chants such as “Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe” (Long Live Madvi Hidma).

Footage from the scene shows one protester holding a poster reading, “From Birsa Munda to Madvi Hidma, the struggle of our forests and environment will go on.” Minutes later, clashes broke out between protesters and police, with officers reportedly attacked using chili spray while attempting to maintain order. Three to four police personnel sustained injuries and were treated at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital.

Delhi Police confirmed that 15 arrests have been made and legal action is underway against those raising Maoist slogans. “Those responsible will be identified and charged under appropriate laws,” officials stated.

Madvi Hidma, killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh on November 18, was a top Maoist leader responsible for at least 26 armed attacks against security forces and civilians. Born in 1981 in Sukma, he led a battalion of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army and became the youngest member of the CPI Maoist Central Committee. Hidma was involved in several high-profile attacks, including the 2010 Dantewada ambush that killed 76 CRPF personnel, the 2013 Jhiram Ghati attack, and the 2021 Sukma-Bijapur ambush.

Authorities noted that the protest’s initial focus on air pollution had been overtaken by violent elements. Police spokespersons said barricades were breached, obstructing emergency access for ambulances and medical teams. A case has been registered under sections pertaining to obstructing government work and public order violations.

The incident underscores the challenges authorities face in balancing public demonstrations with security, especially when protests spiral into politically or ideologically charged actions.