The recent “Sansad Chalo” protest held on July 20 has resulted in injuries to at least 130 police personnel and approximately 65 students, as confirmed by sources within the Delhi Police. The demonstration began at Jantar Mantar and sought to march towards Parliament, drawing a crowd of around 10,000 people at its peak. To manage the situation, nearly 3,000 police officers were deployed to ensure public safety and maintain order.

The Delhi Police sources indicated that the ongoing protests had led to a number of confrontations, resulting in significant injuries on both sides. The law enforcement officials employed tear gas and lathi-charges in an attempt to disperse the crowd after erecting barricades along the intended route to Parliament. This response has generated considerable backlash across various political parties.

Police Response and Security Measures

In light of the escalating protests, the Delhi Police have heightened security around Jantar Mantar and are closely monitoring the comings and goings of individuals at the site. They have implemented a Facial Recognition System (FRS) to identify individuals with suspected criminal backgrounds who have allegedly taken part in the protest.

According to police sources, over 2,000 individuals with criminal records have been identified in connection with the protests. The FRS is being used as a tool to prevent any potential violence and to ensure that honest participants among the protestors are not unfairly targeted. Police have united their efforts to identify anti-social elements allegedly inciting trouble during the demonstrations.

Contrary to these measures, representatives from the Cockroach Janta Party have accused the police of using excessive force. Ashutosh Ranka, a spokesperson for the party, mentioned that they would compile a list of police personnel involved in instances of brutality during the protests and make this information public, challenging the police’s account of events.

Legal Actions and FIRs Filed

Following the protests on July 20, the Delhi Police registered 15 FIRs across different police stations, including Parliament Street and Connaught Place, targeting various offences associated with the demonstrations. The charges invoked include sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the Arms Act, 1959, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

The FIRs filed at the Parliament Street police station include numerous sections of the BNS that address disobedience to public servants, obstruction of governmental work, and assault aimed at deterring a public servant from discharging their duties. These legal actions indicate the authorities’ intention to deal sternly with any incidents of unrest or violence related to the protests.

As this situation continues to develop, the Delhi Police face pressure to manage both public safety and the rights of protestors. The balance between enforcing the law and ensuring the right to protest without undue violence has become increasingly contentious in the aftermath of the events of July 20.

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