The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday confirmed the establishment of a high-powered committee to investigate allegations of police excesses against student protesters during the NEET protests in Delhi. This pivotal decision comes in response to reports of violence during a protest march on July 20, highlighting concerns over student rights and police conduct.
A bench consisting of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana announced that the committee will include retired judges, a former Director General of Police (DGP), a former Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director, and recommended members from various parties. The formal order to constitute this committee will be issued on Wednesday.
To ensure a thorough investigation, the Supreme Court directed that video footage and CCTV recordings from the July 20 protest be handed over to the committee. This material will play a crucial role in assessing the police’s response during the incidents.
The panel also aims to address complaints and allegations made by female protesters who claimed they faced targeted violence during the protests. The bench emphasized the need for a comprehensive examination of these incidents to ensure justice.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta was instructed to provide the court with details about First Information Reports (FIRs) against student protesters. The Supreme Court hinted at using its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to quash these FIRs, expressing concern for the futures of the students involved.
“It is the life of students that is at stake. We have to consider this,” Justice Kant remarked, stressing that students have a fundamental right to protest under Article 19 of the Constitution. The bench challenged a counsel opposing the quashing of cases against these students, stating that students should not be compelled to apologize.
As part of the investigation, Mehta indicated that the police have identified over 2,800 individuals with “anti-social elements” background who contributed to the chaos during the protest, signaling a serious approach to addressing public safety and law enforcement accountability.
Earlier on August 3, the Supreme Court clarified its stance on the term “criminal antecedents,” stating it pertains only to individuals involved in serious violent offenses. This clarification followed discussions on whether the government should pursue FIRs against those who participated in the NEET examination paper leak protests, suggesting a more lenient approach for those without significant criminal records.
The apex court previously affirmed that police excesses, including the use of force, cannot be justified merely due to an agitation. It reiterated that the right to peaceful protest is “absolutely guaranteed,” emphasizing the importance of protecting democratic rights.
The protests on July 20 orchestrated by the Cockroach Janta Party included clashes with law enforcement officials, who responded with lathis and tear gas in an attempt to control the crowds that sought to approach Parliament.
