The recent police action against student protesters in New Delhi has drawn criticism from Asaduddin Owaisi, the president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM). He stated that such responses from the government reflect a troubling pattern, noting that similar measures were observed during previous protests, including those by farmers and lawyers. Owaisi made these comments following a protest led by the Coalition for Justice and Peace (CJP), which reportedly resulted in injuries to over 100 individuals.

Background of the Protests

The protests, which began in June, have gained traction following activist Sonam Wangchuk’s involvement and ongoing hunger strike. The primary demand of the protesters is the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, linked to allegations surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Owaisi emphasised that the government missed multiple opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue with the students, which could have possibly prevented the escalation of tensions.

Visuals from the protest, described by Owaisi as “complete disorder,” reflect the chaotic situation that unfolded during the march at Jantar Mantar. The protests are reportedly part of a larger movement advocating for structural reforms within the education system, particularly regarding examination integrity.

Owaisi’s remarks have coincided with growing opposition criticism directed at the government’s handling of the police response. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, also condemned the police’s actions, expressing concern that students were subjected to violence for simply voicing their apprehensions regarding their futures.

Legal Actions and Investigations Initiated

The Delhi Police has taken legal actions in response to the events during the protest, registering five First Information Reports (FIRs) linked to allegations of violence, stone-pelting, and vandalism. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the violence was orchestrated as part of a premeditated plot. Police are reportedly engaging with over 250 video recordings to identify individuals involved in the clashes.

FIRs have been lodged at various police stations, including Parliament Street and Connaught Place. The legal framework under which these complaints have been filed includes various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the Arms Act, 1959, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act (PDPP Act). The police reported that the violence has left more than 118 police personnel injured, alongside reports of over 60 protesters suffering injuries.

The situation marks a significant development in the ongoing discourse regarding student rights and government accountability in India, as the protests not only highlight the concerns over the NEET examination integrity but also reflect broader issues relating to civil liberties and governmental response to dissent.

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