New Delhi, August 3: The Supreme Court held a hearing on petitions challenging police action against students protesting the NEET paper leak at Jantar Mantar and other locations. Advocate Shailendra Mani Tripathi, representing the petitioners, provided updates on the court proceedings and discussions that took place during the hearing.
Tripathi informed the media that the Supreme Court clarified its previous order, stating that investigations will continue against individuals facing serious criminal charges such as murder and robbery. However, no further action will be taken against those who participated solely in peaceful protests. The court emphasized that individuals involved in non-violent demonstrations should not face unnecessary criminal repercussions.
During the hearing, the Solicitor General assured the court that necessary instructions from the police commissioner and relevant agencies had not yet been received. Once these instructions are obtained, a detailed response will be submitted to the court. Senior advocate Gopal Shankar Narayanan, representing the petitioners, requested that a complete record of when, under what circumstances, and by whose orders pellet guns and other force were used during the protests be presented to the court.
Tripathi announced that the next hearing is scheduled for August 18. According to a prior Supreme Court order, the chief secretaries of the concerned states must submit their affidavits. Responses from the police commissioner and other agencies are also anticipated.
The court indicated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) or a high-powered committee might be formed to ensure a fair investigation. By the next hearing on August 18, the affidavits from the states and the police responses are expected to be presented, after which a decision on the formation of a committee or agency for the investigation will be made. Tripathi expressed hope that concrete conclusions would emerge from the next hearing.
Regarding the use of pellet guns, the advocate noted that the Supreme Court verbally indicated that such weapons should not be used against peaceful protesters. The court also suggested that a standard operating procedure (SOP) might be developed for the future use of pellet guns, outlining the circumstances and processes under which they could be deployed. The court indicated that future regulations on pellet gun usage would be based on this SOP. The next hearing is set for August 18.
–
Leave a Comment