Mamata Banerjee, the former Chief Minister of West Bengal and leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has vocally condemned the alleged police brutality against protesting youth and students in Delhi. Her comments highlight concerns regarding the democratic integrity of the central government. In a social media post on July 20, 2026, she expressed her disapproval of the force used against demonstrators, asserting that the government must be held accountable for its actions.

Banerjee raised critical questions regarding the current administration’s attitude towards dissent, asking, “What kind of government fears its own students? What kind of democracy responds to questions with batons and tear gas instead of dialogue?” Her statements reflect a broader commitment to uphold the values of democracy and dissent as essential to civic engagement.

Dissent as a Democratic Right

In her statements, Banerjee reiterated that dissent is a fundamental component of democracy. She emphasised that the nation belongs to its citizens, including students, farmers, and workers, and that oppressive tactics do not equate to effective governance. “Dissent is not a crime. Brutality is not governance,” she asserted, highlighting the importance of open dialogue over forceful suppression.

Banerjee expressed solidarity with the student protestors, commending their courage in the face of police action. She stated, “I stand firmly with my young brothers and sisters. Accountability is non-negotiable.” Her words were intended to bolster the spirits of those involved in the protests, reinforcing the message that their actions represent a valuable part of the nation’s democratic fabric.

As the protests continued, the former Chief Minister also honoured the resilience demonstrated by the youth, urging them to remain steadfast in their demands for accountability and justice.

Police Response and Protests Near Parliament

On the same day, clashes reportedly occurred between police and protestors on Parliament Street as members of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) sought to march towards Parliament over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam paper. According to a Delhi Police Sub Inspector, some police personnel sustained injuries while attempting to control the situation, wherein protesters allegedly pelted stones.

The Delhi Police subsequently responded to claims by the CJP that its founder, Abhijeet Dipke, had been detained. An official statement declared these allegations “entirely false,” asserting that Dipke was present at the protest stage. This clarification aimed to address the confusion caused by circulating reports on social media.

CJP spokesperson Saurav Das supported the police statement, confirming that Dipke had not been arrested and stressing the necessity of accurate information in reporting events. The tensions surrounding these protests have become emblematic of broader concerns regarding freedom of expression and the relationship between citizens and authority.

Political Reactions and Accountability Demands

In the wake of the protests, opposition leaders have strongly condemned the government’s actions. Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, expressed his dismay at the police’s use of force on students, describing it as an assault on democratic values. Kharge’s comments reflect a growing frustration within opposition parties regarding the central government’s handling of dissent.

Moreover, Kharge indicated that accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi is crucial, especially regarding allegations of financial mismanagement tied to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. His criticism raises pertinent questions about ethical governance and transparency in political activities.

On a related note, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke concluded his hunger strike initiated in response to the hospitalisation of activist Sonam Wangchuk. This development underscores the serious health implications associated with prolonged activism while highlighting the personal stakes involved in advocating for political change.

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