Shops shut, stray protests in Delhi

Markets were shut, many schools remained closed and stray protests were seen in the national capital today on account of the opposition's nationwide shutdown against rising fuel prices.

Markets were shut, many schools remained closed and stray protests were seen in the national capital on Monday on account of the opposition's nationwide shutdown against rising fuel prices.

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Public transport was largely unaffected.

Shutters were down in most shops in the city, with small groups of people roaming the streets to enforce the strike, especially to check the stray shopkeepers who had decided to open their shops.

Delhi Police deployed a large number of policeman to maintain law and order.

"More than 100 companies have been allotted to ensure smooth flow of traffic and peaceful demonstrations. Any violent protest will be dealt very strictly," said Delhi Police spokesperson Rajan Bhagat.

Public transport like buses and autos were plying but their frequency was low compared to normal weekdays.

"Though the buses are running, they are coming late partly because of the jams due to protests and also due to the rains," said Nikita Chandran, a daily commuter.

According to the traffic police, a few demonstrations were reported from parts of the city.

"Stray incidents of bus tyres being deflated or being stopped were seen. A few stretches were blocked also but we have cleared them," Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Satyendra Garg told IANS.