New Delhi: Mass protests for the third straight day on Sunday against the gang-rape of a young woman turned violent here, leaving scores injured, including one policeman in critical condition, and turning the India Gate area into a virtual war zone.
Police and paramilitary personnel liberally used batons and tear gas to chase away thousands after the emotionally charged protests during the day descended into chaos by evening.
The protests saw hooligan elements mingled in the crowd uproot wooden poles erected for the Republic Day event and set them afire at five places.
They upturned vehicles, smashed window panes of buses and other vehicles and also hurled stones and bottles on policemen in response to tear gas and baton attacks to prevent protesters from marching towards Raisina Hills, where prohibitory orders were put in place.
By night, roads in the area were littered with sandals, shoes, books, hand-held banners, bags and water bottles. As many as 143 people, including 78 police personnel, were injured at India Gate. (IANS)
