New Delhi: A large protest against Israel and the United States over their military action on Iran turned tense at Jantar Mantar after a group of YouTubers and television reporters raised pro government slogans during the gathering. Organisers stepped in to prevent escalation, while police present at the site did not intervene.
The demonstration was called by the Communist Party of India Marxist Leninist New Democracy and supported by several Left parties, student unions, and civil society groups. Hundreds attended. Protesters carried placards reading Stop War on Iran, Hands Off Palestine, and No to Imperialist Aggression. Speakers criticised the Modi government for what they described as silence on the conflict in West Asia.
Leaders who addressed the rally included Dipankar Bhattacharya of the Communist Party of India Marxist Leninist Liberation, Mirganank of CPI ML New Democracy, Birju Naik of the Communist Ghadar Party of India, Dr Vikas Bajpai of Jan Hastakshep, Prof Nandita Narain, and CPI Marxist leader Maimona Mullah.
Midway through the speeches, a small group began shouting Jai Shri Ram and Modi Zindabad. Eyewitnesses said protest marshals formed a human chain near the stage and urged participants to stay calm. Speeches resumed within minutes.
Mirganank alleged that civilian areas in Iran were hit in the strikes and accused the United States of using nuclear talks as a pretext for regime change. Speakers linked the crisis to broader regional conflicts and expressed solidarity with Palestine.
No detentions were reported. The protest ended with calls for continued nationwide mobilisation.
By Abdul Bari Masoud
