'Nail-fitted lathi' videos are fake, says Delhi Police; 250 videos under scanner in CJP violence case

Amid allegations that Delhi Police used lathis fitted with nails during the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) 'Sansad Chalo' protest, the force has dismissed the claims as "false and misleading" while intensifying its investigation into the violence that erupted in central Delhi on Monday.

Videos shared by several protesters on social media claimed that some Delhi Police lathis had nails attached to them, allegedly making the baton strikes more dangerous during the march towards Parliament. The videos quickly went viral, with many users demanding an independent investigation into the allegations.

However, Delhi Police rejected the claims, stating that the viral videos were not related to Monday's protest.

"The videos circulating on social media alleging that police used batons fitted with nails during yesterday's protest are false and misleading. These videos are not related to yesterday's protest," the police said in a statement.

The force also urged people not to circulate unverified content online.

"Citizens are advised not to spread unverified information and to verify facts before sharing or forwarding content on social media. Appropriate legal action will be taken against individuals found spreading rumours or misinformation," the statement added.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police have intensified their probe into the violence that broke out during the CJP-led protest and are relying extensively on video evidence to identify those involved in the unrest.

Investigators are examining more than 250 videos, including mobile phone recordings, CCTV footage, drone camera visuals and footage captured through police body-worn cameras, to trace those allegedly responsible for the violence.

According to officials, the footage is being scrutinised to identify the miscreants involved in vandalism, stone-pelting and attacks on police personnel and government vehicles. Police are also verifying whether those identified have previous criminal records.

Investigators are further examining whether those involved had arrived at Jantar Mantar with a pre-planned strategy or whether the violence erupted spontaneously. The probe is also looking into whether the accused acted in a coordinated manner and whether people were mobilised through WhatsApp or Telegram groups before the violence broke out.

Officials are analysing digital evidence and communication patterns to determine if there was any organised planning behind the unrest.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police have registered an FIR at Connaught Place Police Station against unidentified persons in connection with the violence and vandalism.

According to police, a group of miscreants vandalised police vehicles and allegedly pelted stones at a police team near Regal Cinema on the Outer Circle of Connaught Place during Monday's clashes.

Further investigation is underway, and officials said all available evidence is being examined to establish the sequence of events and identify those responsible.