A demolition drive at Delhi's Kathputli Colony - a slum of performing artistes, puppeteers and magicians - turned violent on Monday. Two leaders of the CPI-backed National Federation of Indian Women - general secretary Annie Raja (55) and Delhi general secretary Philomina John (78) - who resisted the demolition with residents, were admitted to hospital after clashes with the police and Delhi Development Authority staff.

The DDA said its staff faced stone attacks and a gas cylinder explosion. More than 400 tenements were razed. Residents say the alternative settlement lacks clean water and employment opportunities. PTI