NHRC takes suo motu cognisance of Delhi Police excesses during Jantar Mantar protests

• NHRC takes suo motu cognisance of Delhi Police excesses against student protesters at Jantar Mantar.
• Allegations include use of tear gas, lathi charges, and dismantling of protest tents.
• Commission issues notice to Commissioner of Police seeking response to allegations.
• Suo motu cognisance sets precedent for investigating police excesses during public demonstrations.

In view of the gravity of the issue, the Commission takes suo-motu cognizance of the matter,

On July 20, a protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar turned violent as the Delhi Police allegedly used excessive force against student protesters. The police reportedly resorted to tear gas, lathi charges, and dismantled protest tents, leaving several protesters injured. This incident has now caught the attention of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter.

The protests at Jantar Mantar began in June as a response to repeated question paper leaks, with the online collective Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demanding the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protests culminated in a 'Sansad Chalo' march to Parliament on July 20, despite the Delhi Police stating that no permission had been granted for the march.

The NHRC's decision to take suo motu cognisance of the matter is significant as it raises concerns over the protection of fundamental rights during public demonstrations. The Commission has issued a notice to the Commissioner of Police of Delhi seeking his response to the allegations. This move is in line with the NHRC's mandate to investigate and address human rights violations.

The suo motu cognisance by the NHRC sets a precedent for investigating police excesses during public demonstrations. Lawyers are likely to closely watch this development, as it may establish a new standard for addressing such incidents in the future.

The NHRC's suo motu cognisance of Delhi Police excesses during Jantar Mantar protests is a crucial step towards ensuring accountability and upholding human rights. The Commission's decision to investigate this matter sends a strong message that the use of excessive force against protesters will not be tolerated. This development has significant implications for public demonstrations and the role of law enforcement agencies in maintaining order.

The outcome of this investigation may set a new benchmark for police conduct during protests, making it essential for lawyers to closely follow this case and its potential precedents.

Lawyers should watch for potential precedent in NHRC's suo motu cognisance, which may set a new standard for investigating police excesses during public demonstrations.

Source: Original reporting via Bar and Bench