Supreme Court To Hear Petitions On Police Action During NEET Paper Leak Protests

The Supreme Court will hear petitions on July 28 alleging excessive police force during protests over the NEET paper leak.

The Bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohan, reaffirmed that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and ordered an impartial probe into allegations against both the police and protesters.

The court noted that injured police personnel must also be heard, said the issue has nationwide implications, hinted at framing national guidelines for handling protests, and questioned why police deployed during large demonstrations lacked adequate protective gear.

The Chief Justice added that authorities must also address situations where anti-social elements infiltrate otherwise peaceful protests.

The petitions relate to the 20 July Parliament March organised by students demanding action over the alleged NEET paper leak and seeking the resignation of the Union Education Minister.

Tripti Kashyap of Mathura filed one of the petitions seeking an independent probe into the alleged police action against student protesters.

The petition alleges that police used excessive force, including baton charges, tear gas and detentions, while some individuals in plain clothes assaulted protesters. It also seeks the preservation of CCTV, drone and body-camera footage, along with other electronic evidence, legal action against those found responsible, and compensation for victims if the inquiry establishes unlawful use of force.

The petition argues that the police action violated the fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution.

Also Read: ‘The Supreme Court Can Never Deny Hearing Any Case’: CJI Surya Kant