The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) deployed over 500 workers to clean the Jantar Mantar protest site on Wednesday, following the conclusion of the Coalition for Justice and Peace (CJP) agitation that had occupied the area for several months. The clean-up operation aimed to restore the historic monument and its surroundings to their original condition.
Massive Clean-Up Operation
The NDMC mobilized a large workforce, including sanitation staff and supervisors, to remove debris, temporary structures, and waste accumulated during the protest. Heavy machinery was also used to clear the site efficiently. According to NDMC officials, the operation was completed within a day, with all protest-related materials removed.
Government Statement
An NDMC spokesperson stated, "We are committed to preserving the heritage of Jantar Mantar. The clean-up was necessary after the agitation ended, and we ensured minimal disruption to the surrounding areas." The council also deployed water tankers to wash the monument and its pathways.
Historical Significance
Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an 18th-century astronomical observatory. Protests there often draw attention to various causes but have raised concerns about damage to the structure. The CJP agitation, which demanded justice for marginalized communities, had been ongoing for weeks before organizers decided to disband.
Reactions and Impact
Local residents and heritage activists welcomed the clean-up, expressing relief that the site is now accessible to tourists. The NDMC plans to increase surveillance to prevent future unauthorized occupations. The protest's end marks a return to normalcy for the area, which had been a focal point of demonstrations.
