New Delhi: The Supreme Court has ordered FIRs against students peacefully protesting the alleged NEET-UG paper leak to be quashed, according to a Jansatta report.
However, proceedings involving 2,873 people accused of violence and vandalism will continue. The relief applies to peaceful protesters, not those facing serious criminal allegations.
Court invokes Article 142
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana exercised powers under Article 142 to close protest-related cases.
The FIRs were registered against students in Delhi, Assam, West Bengal and Bihar after Jantar Mantar demonstrations.
Authorities assured the court that students would not face fresh cases for participating in protests over the alleged paper leak or demands concerning the education ministry.
Separate investigation into violence
Delhi Police will continue proceedings against 2,873 people allegedly linked to vandalism and violence during the agitation.
Police had reportedly used facial-recognition technology to identify suspected criminals at the protest venue.
CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said those accused of murder, rape or serious crimes should be investigated and prosecuted. However, peaceful students should not face criminal action for exercising their democratic rights.
September 5 march withdrawn
The Cockroach Janta Party withdrew its proposed September 5 march to India Gate following assurances from the Centre and the Supreme Court proceedings.
The Chief Justice welcomed the decision and observed that disputes could be resolved when both sides engaged in dialogue with an open mind and mutual trust.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta described the discussions between the government and protesters as constructive and positive.
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Nadda welcomes resolution
Union Minister JP Nadda said he and Minister Jitendra Singh had met representatives of the protesting students.
He said the Centre had promised to withdraw cases against peaceful demonstrators and protect students from stringent future action.
The government also reportedly assured the court that compensation concerning students who died by suicide during the protests would be paid within 90 days directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
