A large crowd gathered at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday in a powerful show of solidarity with the people of Gaza, as Israel’s military offensive in the region continues to draw global outrage. Organized by the group Friends of Palestine, the protest drew students, academics, activists, and concerned citizens, all united by a demand for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian relief for Gaza.
Protesters carried Palestinian flags and placards reading “Stop Bombing Gaza,” “India, Don’t Be Complicit,” and “Humanity Before Politics.” Many wore the black-and-white keffiyeh—a symbol of Palestinian resistance—as they called on the Indian government to break its silence and end military ties with Israel.
“We cannot stay silent while children are being killed,” said Aisha Khan, a student activist who joined the protest. “Gaza is bleeding, and the world is watching.”
Key Demands
The demonstrators outlined a clear set of demands:
An immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza.
Lifting of the Israeli blockade to allow food, medicine, and humanitarian aid.
A halt to India’s arms trade and diplomatic cooperation with Israel.
International accountability for alleged war crimes.
Recognition of Palestinian sovereignty and long-term justice for its people.
A Peaceful but Urgent Message
While the protest remained peaceful, emotions ran high. Participants observed a moment of silence for the thousands of civilians killed in Gaza since the latest escalation began. According to figures cited by organizers, over 36,000 people have died, with tens of thousands more injured, many of them women and children.
Though no formal political leaders addressed the gathering, several speakers from student organizations and human rights groups criticized the Indian government’s muted response to the Gaza crisis.
“India has a proud history of supporting anti-colonial struggles,” said a Delhi University professor at the protest. “Remaining neutral in the face of genocide undermines that legacy.”
Part of a Broader Movement
The rally was part of a growing global wave of protests in support of Palestine. Demonstrations have taken place in cities across Europe, the United States, and the Global South as part of the “Global March to Gaza,” demanding humanitarian corridors and an end to the Israeli blockade.
Activists in Delhi emphasized that Tuesday’s protest would not be the last. Organizers pledged to continue building pressure through public demonstrations, advocacy campaigns, and outreach to political leaders.
“This is not just a regional issue,” said a Friends of Palestine spokesperson. “This is a human issue. We will continue to raise our voices until there is justice, peace, and accountability.”
The Broader Implication
The protest at Jantar Mantar reflects growing public dissatisfaction with India’s foreign policy posture on the Gaza conflict. Demonstrators called for a more assertive moral position—one that aligns with India’s constitutional values and international human rights obligations.
With strong visual imagery, peaceful mobilization, and a clear set of demands, the June 24 rally sent a message beyond the borders of Delhi: Solidarity with Palestine is growing, and silence is no longer an option.
