New Delhi / Hyderabad, August 21: Delhi Police registered an FIR on Friday after student protester Sahil Lochab complained of a pellet gun injury during a July 20 demonstration at Jantar Mantar.
The development came after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi demanded action on Lochab’s complaint.
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, accompanied Lochab to the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police. He sought registration of an FIR over the alleged use of excessive force during the student protest.
Rahul later staged a sit-in outside the Parliament Street Police Station. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined the protest.
According to Congress sources, Lochab and his lawyers submitted a written complaint to Delhi Police on August 14. They allegedly did not receive an acknowledgement or investigation officer number. The complaint was later followed up through email and phone on August 17, the sources said.
Rahul Gandhi demands probe into pellet injury
Lochab alleged that police used pellet guns during the July 20 student protest. The demonstration involved students who marched towards Parliament over examination related concerns and the NEET paper leak controversy.
Rahul Gandhi displayed pellets during his interaction with reporters. He claimed that more than 200 pellets remained lodged in Lochab’s body.
He also claimed that pellets injured Lochab’s eye and affected his vision. According to Lochab, doctors first treated him at Lady Hardinge Hospital before referring him to AIIMS.
He said he later underwent surgery, but his vision remained unclear.
Rahul questioned the circumstances surrounding the alleged pellet injuries. He said Delhi Police had denied firing pellets and demanded an investigation to establish who fired them.
He also called for a judicial inquiry into the incident.
Furthermore, he demanded action against anyone found responsible for the alleged use of force.
The protest led to a confrontation outside the police station. Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed at the location as Rahul continued his sit in.
Rahul also criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the incident. The Union Home Ministry oversees the Delhi Police.
The Congress leader said the authorities must investigate the allegations and ensure accountability. He also argued that refusing to register a complaint would undermine constitutional rights.
The Delhi Police has now registered the FIR following the complaint. The case will allow investigators to examine the allegations and determine the circumstances surrounding Lochab’s injuries.
The July 20 incident has already triggered a political confrontation between the opposition and the government.
Opposition leaders have alleged excessive force against students, while the authorities face questions over the alleged pellet firing.
The FIR marks a fresh development in the dispute. Investigators will now examine the complaint, medical records and other available evidence before determining responsibility.
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