NHRC Probes Delhi Police Action Against Students

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of allegations of excessive force used by the Delhi Police against students during a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 20.

The Commission issued a notice to the Delhi Police Commissioner, directing the police to submit a detailed report within two weeks.

The NHRC initiated proceedings based on a news report, which alleged that a student-led protest at Jantar Mantar turned violent after the Delhi Police used tear gas, conducted a lathi charge, and dismantled protest tents, resulting in injuries to several demonstrators.

The protests began in June after an online collective, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), called for demonstrations demanding the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over repeated question paper leak incidents.

The agitation culminated in a 'Sansad Chalo' march towards Parliament on July 20, which led to clashes between protesters and police.

The NHRC stated that the alleged use of force, if found to be excessive or disproportionate, could constitute a violation of constitutional rights and of India's international human rights obligations.

The Commission reiterated that while maintaining public order is important, peaceful protests are protected under the Constitution and restrictions must remain reasonable.

The NHRC has directed the Delhi Police to submit a detailed report on the July 20 incident, including the factual circumstances surrounding the protest, the reasons for imposing prohibitory orders, and details of the use of force.

The Commission has also sought information on injuries sustained by protesters, whether medical assistance was provided to injured students, and the standard operating procedures followed for crowd control.

The NHRC's move is significant as it highlights the importance of protecting human rights during public demonstrations.

The Commission's order is a reminder that the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental right and can only be subjected to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order.

The incident has sparked concerns about the use of force by police during protests and the need for a balanced approach to maintain public order while protecting human rights.

The NHRC's investigation is expected to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the protest and the police action, and will help to ensure that the rights of protesters are protected in the future.

The Commission's decision to take suo motu cognisance of the matter demonstrates its commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring that those responsible for any violations are held accountable.

In the context of the incident, it is essential to strike a balance between maintaining public order and protecting human rights, and the NHRC's investigation will help to achieve this balance.

The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining the next course of action and ensuring that the rights of protesters are protected in the future.