Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, staged a protest on August 21 at the Parliament Street Police Station to demand the filing of a First Information Report (FIR). This action follows an alleged incident involving the use of pellet guns against a protester, Sahil Lochav, on July 20 in Connaught Place. Gandhi expressed his determination to remain at the location until the FIR is officially registered.

In addressing the media from the police station, Gandhi referenced a medical report from AIIMS, asserting that Lochav’s injuries were due to pellet gun use. The report allegedly stated that there are over 200 pellets within Lochav’s body, with three lodged in his eye, resulting in a loss of vision. Gandhi raised concerns about the authenticity of police claims, stating, “Delhi Police say they did not fire pellet guns. So, there is just one question: someone must have done it…A crime has indeed happened.” His protest was also aimed specifically at the local police and the Union Home Ministry.

Accompanying Gandhi at the protest were various Congress leaders and supporters, who gathered to voice their solidarity. Rahul Gandhi further accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah of obstructing justice, stating, “In this country, Amit Shah’s Home Ministry and Delhi Police personnel won’t let justice happen.” His statements highlighted the alleged lack of accountability from government officials regarding the treatment of peaceful protesters.

Allegations of Police Brutality and Failure to Register Complaint

Gandhi took to social media platform X to accuse the Home Minister of fear surrounding the provision of justice. He detailed his experience at the DCP office, where he sought to file an FIR connected to the alleged police violence against Lochav during a protest at Jantar Mantar. Gandhi asserted that Sahil has suffered severe injuries, causing a risk to his vision, and described the incident as an unlawful act of brutality against a peaceful demonstration.

In his statements, Gandhi highlighted a perceived lack of response from the Prime Minister and Home Minister following the incident. He expressed that the rights guaranteed by the Constitution are under threat, posing questions to Amit Shah on his reluctance to offer explanations to those affected by police actions. “This fear shows that you are admitting to your crime,” he remarked, promising that steps would be taken to ensure that justice is served for Sahil and similar victims.

Reports indicate that Lochav previously approached Delhi Police with a formal written complaint on August 14 but allegedly did not receive an acknowledgment or incident number. The follow-up attempts made on August 17 included communication through email and phone with no success in obtaining a case number or response.

Continuing Efforts for Justice and Accountability

On the day of the protest, Rahul Gandhi accompanied Sahil Lochav to the DCP office to reinforce the request for the FIR registration. There were claims that the DCP did not provide any information regarding a case officer or incident number. Earlier, Gandhi had also visited the Mandir Marg Police Station seeking to have the case officially documented, but after facing refusal, he redirected his efforts to the Central DCP and finally the Parliament Street Police Station.

According to those familiar with the situation, the alleged actions constitute a cognisable offence that necessitates registering an FIR. Rahul Gandhi has been advocating for immediate action regarding the complaint and is pushing for accountability for those believed to be responsible for the incident, as per his statements to the media.

The unfolding situation continues to draw attention to issues surrounding police conduct and the treatment of demonstrators, sparking discussions on the need for institutional reform and justice for victims of violence in protests.

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