Supreme Court Demands Independent Inquiry into NEET Protest Violence

The Supreme Court of India has called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the allegations of police misconduct during the recent protests by students regarding irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG). This call for an inquiry comes in response to claims of excessive force used by law enforcement against demonstrators, highlighting the need for accountability in such situations. The court emphasized that while it supports the right to protest, any unlawful actions taken by individuals, whether they are protesters or police, must be addressed appropriately. The court's remarks were made during hearings concerning petitions filed about the protests that took place at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, where students gathered to voice their grievances over the NEET-UG examination process.

During the proceedings, the Supreme Court underscored the importance of maintaining order and legality during protests, stating that those who engage in unlawful behavior must face the consequences of their actions. The court's statement, “Whosoever committed excesses, took law in their hands should be taken to task,” reflects its commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that all parties involved in the protests are held accountable for their actions. The court also raised pertinent questions regarding the necessity of an independent investigation into the police's actions during the protests, suggesting that transparency is crucial in addressing the allegations of misconduct. The judges expressed concern over the potential violation of established protocols by law enforcement during the demonstrations, indicating that any deviation from proper procedures should be thoroughly examined.