New Delhi: A protest over the rising air pollution turned tense in the national capital as some of the participants allegedly threw pepper spray at policemen, while they were being removed from the site. Three to four policemen are said to be injured in the incident.

As per officials, the injured policemen have been shifted to Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital and are currently undergoing treatment there. The protesters had gathered near India Gate and were demanding steps to curb the pollution in the capital and adjoining areas.

‘Some protesters attempted to cross barricades’

"Some of the protesters had entered the C-hexagon and attempted to cross the barricades put up to restrict movement. We tried to explain to them that many ambulances and medical personnel were stuck behind them and required emergency access, but they got very agitated," news agency PTI quoted an official as saying.

As per the official, the cops urged the protesters to step back after sensing that the situation was going out of hand. However, protesters refused to budge. "They refused, broke the barricade, came onto the road, and sat there. When our teams were trying to remove them, some of the protestors attacked police personnel using chilli spray. Three to four personnel sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment," the officer added. The protesters were subsequently removed.

This was very unusual: Senior police official

Speaking to the agency further, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla said, "This was very unusual. For the first time, protestors used chilli spray on officers managing traffic and law and order.” He added that this was the first time that police personnel encountered pepper spray while controling the crowd.

"A few of our officers were sprayed in the eyes and face and are currently receiving treatment at RML Hospital. Legal action is being taken in this regard," he added. .