The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Police to preserve all CCTV footage and records from the 'Chalo Sansad' protest held on July 20-21. This order follows allegations of excessive force used against demonstrators protesting examination paper leaks. The court has demanded a formal response from the Centre and police authorities, with the next hearing scheduled for September 11.
Detailed Coverage
The Delhi High Court has stepped into the matter regarding the 'Chalo Sansad' protest march that took place on July 20 and 21. A Division Bench, led by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, ordered the Delhi Police to preserve all electronic evidence, including CCTV footage and video recordings, related to the event. This judicial directive follows petitions filed against the alleged use of excessive force during the demonstration, which was organized to protest recent examination paper leaks.
Court Challenges Government Response
The court expressed strong reservations regarding the government's initial argument that individuals claiming police misconduct should seek individual private criminal remedies. The bench stated that the nature of the allegations, which involve claims of disproportionate police action, cannot be dismissed as isolated incidents. By ordering a formal response from the Centre and the Delhi Police, the court has signaled that it intends to examine the broader context of the protest and the subsequent police response.
Allegations and Counter-Claims
Petitioners, including those behind public interest litigations, have presented detailed claims regarding the conduct of security personnel during the march. Represented by Senior Advocate N Hariharan, the petitioners argued that police utilized lathi-charges, tear gas, and electric batons against students and activists without issuing the standard warnings. The petitions allege that these actions resulted in over 90 injuries and included specific complaints regarding the molestation of women demonstrators. The petitioners are seeking the filing of FIRs against the officers involved, the formation of a Special Investigation Team to probe the matter, and protection against any potential coercive action.
In response, the Centre and the Delhi Police, represented by Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, maintained that the protest had turned violent. Officials contended that police personnel sustained injuries during the demonstration and that stone-pelting occurred. They further argued that Section 144 prohibitory orders were in effect at the time, restricting large gatherings. The authorities suggested that the petitions were publicity-seeking and that protesters should use standard criminal law procedures if they felt aggrieved. The court has rejected the contention that these events should be treated only as isolated cases, setting the stage for further legal examination. The matter is currently listed for a follow-up hearing on September 11, where authorities are expected to provide their formal responses.