New Delhi / Hyderabad, July 28 (Maxim News): The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued significant interim directions regarding students arrested during nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak.
The court directed all state governments to immediately release minors below 18 years of age and students with no previous criminal record who were detained during the demonstrations.
The directions came during the hearing of petitions related to FIRs registered against students who participated in protests organised across the country, including at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
The demonstrations were led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.
The apex court also directed authorities not to initiate any coercive action against the students named in the FIRs until further orders.
Supreme Court Seeks Independent Probe
A three judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant expressed serious concern over allegations of police excesses during the protests.
The court observed that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and questioned the use of force against students seeking justice over the alleged examination irregularities.
The Bench stressed the need for an independent investigation into allegations of police misconduct.
The Chief Justice observed that those responsible for excesses against innocent persons would be held accountable under the law, irrespective of their position.
He also remarked that any investigation would serve little purpose if those responsible were not identified.
The court reiterated that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right and said authorities must exercise restraint while dealing with student demonstrations.
During the hearing, the Bench also raised concerns about the safety of police personnel deployed during protests. It said the government would be asked to explain the protective measures and safety equipment provided to officers managing law and order situations.
The Supreme Court further observed that India requires a uniform national protocol for policing protests and handling public demonstrations.
It noted that law enforcement agencies should follow consistent guidelines across the country instead of adopting different approaches in different states.
The matter has been posted for further hearing on a later date. (Maxim News)
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