A 19-year-old man who participated in the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi has reportedly sustained serious injuries to his eyes due to a pellet gun incident allegedly involving police. His family claims he faces the risk of losing his vision as a result of the injuries sustained on July 20 during the “Chalo Sansad” march, which was organised in response to the NEET paper leak.

Sahil Lochab, a resident of Najafgarh in southwest Delhi, was initially treated at a private hospital before being transferred to the AIIMS Trauma Centre, where he continues to receive medical care. His family asserts that the injuries were inflicted by pellets fired by security forces during the protests. However, the authorities have yet to provide any commentary on the claims regarding the use of pellet guns.

Ajay, Sahil’s uncle, highlighted that medical professionals have warned the family about the slim chances of restoring Sahil’s eyesight. He also mentioned observing what seemed to be pellet wounds on Sahil’s body, although no detailed information about his injuries has been officially shared by healthcare staff.

Police Deny Use of Pellet Guns

The Delhi Police have firmly rejected the assertions made by Sahil and his family, labelling claims that police used pellet guns against demonstrators as “completely false and misleading.” They warned the public against sharing unverified reports and urged individuals to verify information through credible sources before disseminating it.

The police also indicated that they would take necessary legal measures against anyone found spreading rumours or misinformation regarding the incidents during the protest. In their statement, the police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining order during protests while ensuring the safety of all participants.

As the situation unfolds, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have not provided any statements regarding the alleged pellet-fired injuries linked to police action. A spokesperson for the CRPF indicated that they were unable to comment on the matter at present.

Ongoing CJP Protests and Demands

The Cockroach Janta Party has been active in protesting at Jantar Mantar since June 6, primarily focused on seeking justice concerning the NEET paper leak and calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. On the day of the reported injuries, clashes erupted between protesters and police, resulting in injuries on both sides.

In addition to demanding the resignation of the Education Minister, the CJP has called for Rs 1 crore in compensation for families of individuals who reportedly took their lives following the NEET examination scandal. The protests gained traction when activist Sonam Wangchuk joined the movement and initiated a hunger strike on June 28, which attracted significant attention.

Wangchuk was previously forcibly relocated to Safdarjung Hospital by law enforcement officials but was later transferred to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram following an order from the Delhi High Court. The ongoing protests underscore the heightened tensions related to examination irregularities and have drawn national focus since their inception.

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