New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) took suo motu cognisance of allegations that Delhi Police used excessive force against student protesters at Jantar Mantar. The Commission has asked the Delhi Police Commissioner to submit a detailed report within two weeks.
The action follows media reports claiming that police used lathi charge, tear gas and other force-control measures during the July 20 student protest in New Delhi. The NHRC said the allegations, if found true, could involve violations of fundamental human rights.
Jantar Mantar Protest: Why Did NHRC Take Suo Motu Cognisance
The NHRC acted on its own after reviewing media reports about the July 20 protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. According to the Commission, the reported use of force against student protesters is serious enough to require an official investigation.
The Commission has issued a notice to the Commissioner of Delhi Police and directed authorities to provide a detailed factual report within two weeks.
Details of Jantar Mantar Protest
The protests began in June after the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) called for demonstrations demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over repeated question paper leak allegations.
On July 20, protesters organised a “Sansad Chalo” march towards Parliament. Delhi Police said permission had not been granted for the march because prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were in force.
As crowds gathered, clashes broke out. Media reports alleged that police used lathi charge, tear gas and dismantled protest tents, leaving several protesters injured. Delhi Police has maintained that security measures were taken to maintain law and order.
Jantar Mantar Protest: What Did The NHRC Say
The Commission observed that if the allegations are true, they raise serious concerns about the protection of human rights. It also stressed that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and any police action must be reasonable, necessary and proportionate. According to the NHRC, maintaining public order should not come at the cost of fundamental rights.
What Details Has NHRC Asked Delhi Police To Submit
The Commission has directed Delhi Police to provide information on:
- The complete facts of the July 20 incident.
- The reasons for imposing Section 163 of the BNSS.
- Details of any lathi charge, tear gas or pellet use.
- The number and nature of injuries suffered by protesters.
- Whether injured students received medical treatment.
- Standard operating procedures followed during crowd control.
- Whether any internal inquiry has been started into the use of force.
The NHRC has also ordered that CCTV footage and video recordings of the incident be preserved and submitted with the report.
What Happens Next?
Delhi Police has been given two weeks to submit its report to the NHRC. After reviewing the report and supporting evidence, the Commission may decide whether further investigation or additional action is required under the Protection of Human Rights Act.
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