One of the most touching scenes from Chandigarh has been received by many on the Internet and has received worldwide attention, in contrast to the tense scenes seen in recent Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests in Delhi. Demonstrators are shown in a video on social media in which they praise Chandigarh Police for their handling of the demonstration and give roses to officers in gratitude.
The viral video appears to show protesters peacefully interacting with police personnel in Chandigarh. Members of the protesting group in the video are able to offer flowers to officers while the police personnel smile and take it. That moment has been widely shared online as an example of how peaceful demonstrations and professional policing can coexist.
"Thank you Chandigarh Police for supporting peaceful protest with utmost professionalism and care,” a statement attached to the video read. Another caption said: “Peaceful protests, powerful messages, and a supportive police force. Thank you Chandigarh Police for keeping the plaza safe for everyone!”
The video was shared on Instagram by the account ‘chandigarhmyheart’ and received more than 18,000 views. The details surrounding the video and the exact circumstances in which it was recorded could not be independently verified.
The positive response to the Chandigarh footage comes at a time of protests by the CJP in many parts of India. The organisation has been calling for reforms in the examination system and the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination.
The protests have been especially intense in Delhi, where demonstrations have continued at Jantar Mantar for a longer period of time. A CJP-led ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20 also saw clashes between protesters and police near Parliament, where both sides reported injuries.
The Chandigarh video has attracted much attention online. Social media users praised the protesters for their appreciation towards police officers and applauded the personnel for maintaining a calm and professional approach.
“I think that officer had tears in his eyes,” one user said. Another wrote that the officer must have felt proud after carrying out his duty. Some of the Chandigarh scenes were compared to those in Bengaluru and Aizawl, where police forces had also received praise for their handling of demonstrations, others said.
The viral video has therefore raised a wider debate about keeping protests peaceful and the professionalism and restraint of law enforcement. The exact circumstances of different protests may vary from city to city, but the Chandigarh visuals are an example of protesters and police in a moment of mutual appreciation during a period of heightened public tension.
