Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe Slogans Spark Controversy as Delhi Air Pollution Protest Turns Violent
Delhi air pollution protest turns violent as protesters raise 'Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe' slogans. Police promise action and arrest 15 involved.
Violence at Delhi Pollution Protest as ‘Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe’ Slogans Emerge
As Delhi's toxicity of the air rises ever higher, Sunday evening played host to a surprising twist when a section of the demonstrators started chanting for the slain Maoist leader Madvi Hidma at India Gate. The Delhi police have warned to take stern action against chanting "propaganda" concerning Maoists, as circulated by some.
Videos and images from the protest showed participants shouting “Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe”, while one protester was seen holding a placard reading: “From Birsa Munda to Madvi Hidma, the struggle of our forests and environment will go on.”
The slogans surfaced shortly before the peaceful demonstration escalated into violence during police intervention.
Police Response
Officials confirmed that a case has been registered and those identified from video footage will face legal action.
“Those who raised such slogans at India Gate will be identified, and legal action will be taken. A case will be filed against them,” the Delhi Police said in a statement.
Authorities also confirmed that 15 people have been arrested so far.
Who Was Madvi Hidma?
Madvi Hidma, a senior Maoist commander, was killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh on November 18. He was allegedly responsible for at least 26 attacks targeting security personnel and civilians.
Born in Sukma in 1981, Hidma rose through the ranks of the CPI (Maoist) and eventually led a battalion of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army. He was the youngest member of the extremist group’s Central Committee and the only tribal representative from Bastar. Hidma carried a bounty of Rs 50 lakh.
He was linked to major attacks including:
- 2010 Dantewada attack that killed 76 CRPF personnel
- 2013 Jhiram Ghati ambush that killed 27 people, including senior Congress leaders
- 2021 Sukma-Bijapur encounter that claimed the lives of 22 security personnel
Protest Over Delhi’s Air Crisis Turns Chaotic
Sunday’s protest drew hundreds demanding swift action as Delhi continues to battle hazardous pollution levels. However, the situation escalated when a group allegedly attempted to breach barricades and reportedly used chilli spray on police officers.
Officials said three to four police personnel sustained injuries and are being treated at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital.
Police claimed the crowd became aggressive after being asked to disperse to allow ambulances and emergency vehicles access.
“Some protesters refused to cooperate and broke barricades. During removal, police personnel were attacked using chilli spray,” an official said.
The situation continues to draw political and public attention as debates intensify over free speech, law enforcement and Delhi’s worsening environmental emergency.
