Television stations showed footage of thousands of protesters, some of whom threw stones at police, who in turn fired tear gas to disperse the crowds. Media reported that two protesters and a senior policeman were injured.

Police declined to confirm any deaths or injuries in the protests, which were centred on the northeast district of Seelampur.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has upset traders with its drive to seal up and demolish illegal shops in the capital's residential areas, which began over a year ago.

The strike started on Tuesday, and the illegal operators gained support from the Confederation of All India Traders and shop owners from authorised markets.