<p>A group of 44 Indian scholars from Harvard University in the US have raised concerns over the recent wave of protests in the national capital terming it to be attacks on India's constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission and the Supreme Court. In a statement on Wednesday (Oct 14), the signatories have asserted that dissent is a right, but questioning institutional credibility without evidence should not be done.&nbsp;<br>They said that the descriptions of New Delhi - the capital - being under “siege” and constitutional authorities as “thieves” or “compromised” raises serious questions about attempts to erode public trust in democratic institutions. The signatories include lawyers, policymakers, civil servants, scientists and academicians.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-adjourns-hearing-on-delhi-protest-metro-train-curbs-pleas-to-october-15-1791876640187">SC adjourns hearing on Delhi protest, metro-train curbs pleas to October 15</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This comes days after another group of 100 Harvard alumni condemned "police brutality, unlawful detention, and violations of constitutional rights of all peaceful protestors" in Delhi during the protest held on October 10 against chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>IThe statement, titled “Constitutional Responsibility, Rule of Law, and Institutional Integrity" stated: “We are deeply concerned by the negative public discourse and concerted campaign against India's constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission, the Supreme Court, the office of the Honourable Chief Justice of India, and Parliament,” reported news agency PTI. It also flagged concerns over reports that Harvard University's name was being used to lend legitimacy to a political campaign without proper authorisation. The scholars said actions taken by law enforcement agencies to maintain public order should be subject to fair scrutiny, but argued that sweeping allegations and abusive language could not replace evidence, due process or accountability. The signatories reiterated that while dissent is a fundamental democratic right, making unsubstantiated allegations that damage the credibility of institutions is not. “The dignity of public servants and the offices they hold must be respected. The Constitution, rule of law, and civil liberties must be respected at all times, not just when it suits our interests,” the statement said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/haven-t-signed-bond-saying-we-won-t-protest-cjp-s-dipke-vows-to-hit-streets-again-1791723721836">‘Haven’t signed bond saying we won’t protest’: CJP’s Dipke vows to hit streets again</a></p><h2>Harvard alumni condemn ‘police brutality’</h2><p>A group of 100 Harvard University alumni, students, faculty members and staff have condemned the Delhi Police action against protesters during a demonstration called by Coakroach Janta Party (CJP) in the national capital on October 10, alleging police brutality, unlawful detention and violations of constitutional rights. "We strongly condemn police brutality, unlawful detention, and violations of constitutional rights of all peaceful protestors," the statement said. "We call upon the government and all law enforcement authorities to immediately cease and desist from all violations of constitutional rights, respect rights to peaceful protest and access to legal assistance, and ensure that those responsible for abuses are held accountable in accordance with the rule of law," the statement added.</p>

A group of 44 Harvard scholars and professionals has raised concerns over what it called a campaign against India's constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission and Supreme Court. 

A group of 44 Indian scholars from Harvard University in the US have raised concerns over the recent wave of protests in the national capital terming it to be attacks on India's constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission and the Supreme Court. In a statement on Wednesday (Oct 14), the signatories have asserted that dissent is a right, but questioning institutional credibility without evidence should not be done. They said that the descriptions of New Delhi - the capital - being under “siege” and constitutional authorities as “thieves” or “compromised” raises serious questions about attempts to erode public trust in democratic institutions. The signatories include lawyers, policymakers, civil servants, scientists and academicians. Also Read: SC adjourns hearing on Delhi protest, metro-train curbs pleas to October 15 This comes days after another group of 100 Harvard alumni condemned "police brutality, unlawful detention, and violations of constitutional rights of all peaceful protestors" in Delhi during the protest held on October 10 against chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar IThe statement, titled “Constitutional Responsibility, Rule of Law, and Institutional Integrity" stated: “We are deeply concerned by the negative public discourse and concerted campaign against India's constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission, the Supreme Court, the office of the Honourable Chief Justice of India, and Parliament,” reported news agency PTI. It also flagged concerns over reports that Harvard University's name was being used to lend legitimacy to a political campaign without proper authorisation. The scholars said actions taken by law enforcement agencies to maintain public order should be subject to fair scrutiny, but argued that sweeping allegations and abusive language could not replace evidence, due process or accountability. The signatories reiterated that while dissent is a fundamental democratic right, making unsubstantiated allegations that damage the credibility of institutions is not. “The dignity of public servants and the offices they hold must be respected. The Constitution, rule of law, and civil liberties must be respected at all times, not just when it suits our interests,” the statement said. Also Read: ‘Haven’t signed bond saying we won’t protest’: CJP’s Dipke vows to hit streets again Harvard alumni condemn ‘police brutality’ A group of 100 Harvard University alumni, students, faculty members and staff have condemned the Delhi Police action against protesters during a demonstration called by Coakroach Janta Party (CJP) in the national capital on October 10, alleging police brutality, unlawful detention and violations of constitutional rights. "We strongly condemn police brutality, unlawful detention, and violations of constitutional rights of all peaceful protestors," the statement said. "We call upon the government and all law enforcement authorities to immediately cease and desist from all violations of constitutional rights, respect rights to peaceful protest and access to legal assistance, and ensure that those responsible for abuses are held accountable in accordance with the rule of law," the statement added.

<p>A group of 44 Harvard scholars and professionals has raised concerns over what it called a campaign against India's constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission and Supreme Court.&nbsp;</p>

Harvard vs Harvard over Delhi protests: After 100 alumni condemn police action, 44 scholars flag attacks on institutions

<p>Delhi Police has specified three new sites in the national capital for holding protests and demonstrations – Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in east Delhi. Meanwhile, officials have de-notified Jantar Mantar as a protest site. The decision followed recommendations from a committee set up by the Union Home Ministry to identify alternative venues where citizens could exercise their right to organise protests and demonstrations.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HUam0pJboAACHbN?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900" alt="Image"></figure><p>Delhi Police announced that detailed and new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for organising demonstrations at the three designated sites will be issued differently. The move unfolded while Opposition parties, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), and student organisations including the All India Students’ Association (AISA) and the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) are planning to protest around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The site has become a rallying point for protesters demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, with the CJP, the Congress and other INDIA bloc parties among those mobilising against him.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/turn-approver-resign-we-ll-forgive-you-rahul-gandhi-claims-receiving-messages-from-cec-gyanesh-kumar-1791789847072">'Turn approver, resign, we'll forgive you': Rahul Gandhi claims receiving messages from CEC Gyanesh Kumar</a></p><h3>Opposition marches toward Supreme Court</h3><p>Meanwhile, opposition parties under the leadership of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi are marching toward the Supreme Court to press the issue of “vote chori.” Gandhi had earlier announced plans to file a petition in the apex court at 3 pm over the matter. Separately, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka visited the Parliament Street Police Station on the same day, seeking permission to hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar against the CEC.</p><p><br>On Sunday, over 200 protesters were detained while raising slogans and attempting to march toward Jantar Mantar, with several seen being escorted into police buses. The crackdown came as the CJP’s protest stretched into its second day, with detentions continuing well into the evening — protesters were being picked up from various locations even past 6:30 pm.</p>

The decision followed recommendations from a committee set up by the Union Home Ministry to identify alternative venues where citizens could exercise their right to organise protests and demonstrations.

Delhi Police has specified three new sites in the national capital for holding protests and demonstrations – Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in east Delhi. Meanwhile, officials have de-notified Jantar Mantar as a protest site. The decision followed recommendations from a committee set up by the Union Home Ministry to identify alternative venues where citizens could exercise their right to organise protests and demonstrations. Delhi Police announced that detailed and new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for organising demonstrations at the three designated sites will be issued differently. The move unfolded while Opposition parties, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), and student organisations including the All India Students’ Association (AISA) and the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) are planning to protest around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The site has become a rallying point for protesters demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, with the CJP, the Congress and other INDIA bloc parties among those mobilising against him. Also read: 'Turn approver, resign, we'll forgive you': Rahul Gandhi claims receiving messages from CEC Gyanesh Kumar Opposition marches toward Supreme Court Meanwhile, opposition parties under the leadership of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi are marching toward the Supreme Court to press the issue of “vote chori.” Gandhi had earlier announced plans to file a petition in the apex court at 3 pm over the matter. Separately, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka visited the Parliament Street Police Station on the same day, seeking permission to hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar against the CEC. On Sunday, over 200 protesters were detained while raising slogans and attempting to march toward Jantar Mantar, with several seen being escorted into police buses. The crackdown came as the CJP’s protest stretched into its second day, with detentions continuing well into the evening — protesters were being picked up from various locations even past 6:30 pm.

<p>The decision followed recommendations from a committee set up by the Union Home Ministry to identify alternative venues where citizens could exercise their right to organise protests and demonstrations.</p>

Delhi Police de-notifies Jantar Mantar as protest site, names 3 new venues

<p>Three women who identified themselves as journalists have filed a complaint alleging manhandling by Delhi Police personnel while they were detained at an October 3 protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), an official said on Sunday (Oct 4).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Neha Yadav said the complaint was lodged around 6 pm. It has been registered, medical examinations have been conducted, and the matter has been referred to the Crime Branch. She appealed to anyone with relevant footage to share it with the Crime Branch.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Yadav said Section 163 of the BNSS was in force in the area, but the All India Students' Association (AISA) and other parties still held a protest against the SIR on October 3. She said protesters were warned to vacate the site under that provision, and were detained when they refused.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sir-row-opposition-takes-to-streets-against-cec-in-delhi-cjp-protest-in-mumbai-1790969007100"><strong>SIR row: Opposition takes to streets against CEC in Delhi; CJP protest in Mumbai | RTP</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Delhi Police said on X that three women journalists had made allegations of sexual harassment against police officers during the protest in the New Delhi area, which it described as a law-and-order situation. It said New Delhi District has received their complaints.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On 03-10-26, during the protest in New Delhi area, while being in law and order situation, allegations of sexual harassment were made by three female journalists against police officers.
 
New Delhi District has received their complaints and the same are transferred to Crime Branch for fair and impartial enquiry.

@PTI_News 
@ANI
#DPUpdates</p>&mdash; Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) <a href="https://x.com/DelhiPolice/status/2106609002117562539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>On Saturday (Oct 3), Delhi Police detained several AISA members during a protest near Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, as demonstrations over the SIR of electoral rolls continued in the capital. Protesters, including AISA president Neha Bora and senior advocates Prashant Bhushan and Kapil Sibal, attempted to breach police barricades near Jantar Mantar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/voting-is-our-right-shabana-azmi-naseeruddin-shah-other-celebritues-back-cjp-protest-at-mumbai-s-shivaji-park-1790955448618"><strong>'Voting is our right': Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah &amp; other celebrities back CJP protest at Mumbai's Shivaji Park</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Police have also registered at least three FIRs over the mass protest held near Jantar Mantar on October 2. Two were registered at Parliament Street Police Station and one at Connaught Place Police Station.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The controversy followed a report in The Indian Express saying Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi formally raised objections at least 14 times over 10 months. The objections concerned decisions on electoral rolls, voter registration and the Commission's technology systems.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Election Commission rejected the suggestion that these amounted to institutional dissent over final decisions. It said operational queries, inputs and suggestions raised at the draft stage are part of its standard administrative and decision-making process. The Election Commission also stated that decisions on the schedule of the SIR exercise were unanimous.</p>

Delhi Police's Crime Branch has launched a probe after three female journalists alleged sexual harassment by police personnel during a protest at Jantar Mantar.

Three women who identified themselves as journalists have filed a complaint alleging manhandling by Delhi Police personnel while they were detained at an October 3 protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), an official said on Sunday (Oct 4). Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Neha Yadav said the complaint was lodged around 6 pm. It has been registered, medical examinations have been conducted, and the matter has been referred to the Crime Branch. She appealed to anyone with relevant footage to share it with the Crime Branch. Yadav said Section 163 of the BNSS was in force in the area, but the All India Students' Association (AISA) and other parties still held a protest against the SIR on October 3. She said protesters were warned to vacate the site under that provision, and were detained when they refused. Also read: SIR row: Opposition takes to streets against CEC in Delhi; CJP protest in Mumbai | RTP Delhi Police said on X that three women journalists had made allegations of sexual harassment against police officers during the protest in the New Delhi area, which it described as a law-and-order situation. It said New Delhi District has received their complaints.

<p>Delhi Police's Crime Branch has launched a probe after three female journalists alleged sexual harassment by police personnel during a protest at Jantar Mantar.</p>

Three women journalists file sexual harassment complaints at Jantar Mantar protest, crime branch to probe

<p>Rahul Gandhi’s dharna outside Delhi's parliament street police station is political theatre, but that does not make the question that he is raising any less serious. Right from the Monsoon Session of the parliament to the streets of the national capital, 20th July, this one date has created question after question, without a clear answer.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On 20th July, a protest by students in Delhi ended up in violent clashes. Amid competing political narratives of ‘violence by protesters’ vs ‘excessive force by police’, one basic question is getting buried: what happened to the individual who suffered? Will his grievance receive due process? The government can certainly point to anti-social elements for the violence. The opposition can point to police action. Both can hold press conferences, trade accusations and score political brownie points.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-registers-fir-over-student-s-alleged-pellet-injuries-after-rahul-gandhi-s-six-hour-dharna-1787323586148"><strong>Delhi Police registers FIR over student's alleged pellet injuries after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But why was a young man unable to register a simple FIR? Rahul Gandhi sitting at a police station may be dismissed as ‘politics of anarchy’ by the BJP, but the sharper question is this: if there's confidence that the July 20 actions were lawful, why should a transparent investigation and a properly recorded complaint be threatening?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The opposition cannot convert every victim into a political prop. But the police and state have to ensure that trust is brought back. If there was violence by protesters, investigate it. If there was excessive force by police, investigate that transparently too. Accountability cannot have a political party's flag because ultimately the question is why must an ordinary citizen need a politician to sit on a dharna, before his grievance is taken seriously. Political noise should not bury individual voice.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/where-should-the-citizen-go-if-not-the-police-1787330752899/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/where-should-the-citizen-go-if-not-the-police-1787330752899/embed</strong></a></p>

Rahul Gandhi’s Delhi police station dharna raises questions over the July 20 student clashes, FIR registration, police action, due process and accountability

Rahul Gandhi’s dharna outside Delhi's parliament street police station is political theatre, but that does not make the question that he is raising any less serious. Right from the Monsoon Session of the parliament to the streets of the national capital, 20th July, this one date has created question after question, without a clear answer. On 20th July, a protest by students in Delhi ended up in violent clashes. Amid competing political narratives of ‘violence by protesters’ vs ‘excessive force by police’, one basic question is getting buried: what happened to the individual who suffered? Will his grievance receive due process? The government can certainly point to anti-social elements for the violence. The opposition can point to police action. Both can hold press conferences, trade accusations and score political brownie points. Also Read: Delhi Police registers FIR over student's alleged pellet injuries after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna But why was a young man unable to register a simple FIR? Rahul Gandhi sitting at a police station may be dismissed as ‘politics of anarchy’ by the BJP, but the sharper question is this: if there's confidence that the July 20 actions were lawful, why should a transparent investigation and a properly recorded complaint be threatening? The opposition cannot convert every victim into a political prop. But the police and state have to ensure that trust is brought back. If there was violence by protesters, investigate it. If there was excessive force by police, investigate that transparently too. Accountability cannot have a political party's flag because ultimately the question is why must an ordinary citizen need a politician to sit on a dharna, before his grievance is taken seriously. Political noise should not bury individual voice. https://www.wionews.com/videos/where-should-the-citizen-go-if-not-the-police-1787330752899/embed

<p>Rahul Gandhi’s dharna may be political theatre, but the unanswered question remains: why couldn’t a young man register an FIR after the July 20 Delhi clashes?</p>

Rahul Gandhi’s police station dharna: Political theatre, but a serious question remains

<p>Delhi Police on Friday registered an FIR on a complaint alleging that student Sahil Lochav suffered pellet gun injuries during the July 20 protest at Jantar Mantar. The FIR was registered hours after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi staged a dharna at Parliament Street Police Station, demanding action on the complaint. The Congress had alleged that police initially refused to register an FIR despite Lochav approaching them with a written complaint. On Friday, Gandhi accompanied the student to the police station and pressed authorities to take action.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After the FIR was registered on Lochav's complaint, Gandhi and Lochav showed a copy of the FIR to media persons. Gandhi subsequently ended his more than six-hour dharna outside the Parliament Street police station. Earlier on Friday, Gandhi had sat on a dharna outside the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police at Parliament Street Police Station, alleging that Delhi Police had failed to act on the student's complaint. “Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, is on a dharna outside the DCP office, New Delhi, alleging that ‘Delhi Police refused to file FIR in the Pellet gun victim case’,” the Congress said in a post on X.</p><h2>What is the case?</h2><p>According to the Congress, Lochav, accompanied by his lawyers, submitted a written complaint to Delhi Police on August 14. The party claimed that the matter was followed up on August 17 through email and telephone calls, but no action was taken. The Congress also alleged that police neither provided an acknowledgement of the complaint nor an I/O number.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi accompanied Lochav to the police station on Friday to demand registration of the case. The Congress maintained that the alleged offence was cognisable and that an FIR was therefore required to be registered. The police action came after Gandhi's protest at the station, with the Congress saying that the student's complaint had subsequently been converted into an FIR. There was no immediate detailed response from Delhi Police addressing the allegations or explaining the circumstances surrounding the registration of the case.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-president-murmu-congratulates-bangladesh-s-new-president-alamgir-1787323189376"><strong>Indian President Murmu congratulates Bangladesh’s new president Alamgir</strong></a></p><h2>Pellet gun controversy</h2><p>The alleged use of pellet guns during the July 20 CJP protest has emerged as a major point of contention, with the opposition and CJP increasing pressure on Delhi Police over its handling of the demonstrations. There has been no official confirmation that pellet guns were used against protesters. However, an entry in the Parliament Street Police Station's daily diary, as reported by Hindustan Times, recorded the use of anti-riot guns and plastic pellets by Rapid Action Force personnel during the protest.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the reported diary entry, RAF personnel fired two rounds from anti-riot guns and used two rounds of plastic pellets while attempting to control the crowd. The alleged injuries have led to calls for an independent investigation into the police response, including claims of pellet injuries as well as the use of other crowd-control measures.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Thursday, the Supreme Court constituted a five-member high-powered enquiry committee headed by former judge Justice R Subhash Reddy to examine allegations of police excesses during the protests. The committee will examine allegations concerning pellet guns, electric batons, lathi charges, tear gas and other crowd-control measures.</p>

Delhi Police registers FIR on Sahil Lochav's alleged pellet gun injuries during the Jantar Mantar protest after Rahul Gandhi's dharna

Delhi Police on Friday registered an FIR on a complaint alleging that student Sahil Lochav suffered pellet gun injuries during the July 20 protest at Jantar Mantar. The FIR was registered hours after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi staged a dharna at Parliament Street Police Station, demanding action on the complaint. The Congress had alleged that police initially refused to register an FIR despite Lochav approaching them with a written complaint. On Friday, Gandhi accompanied the student to the police station and pressed authorities to take action. After the FIR was registered on Lochav's complaint, Gandhi and Lochav showed a copy of the FIR to media persons. Gandhi subsequently ended his more than six-hour dharna outside the Parliament Street police station. Earlier on Friday, Gandhi had sat on a dharna outside the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police at Parliament Street Police Station, alleging that Delhi Police had failed to act on the student's complaint. “Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, is on a dharna outside the DCP office, New Delhi, alleging that ‘Delhi Police refused to file FIR in the Pellet gun victim case’,” the Congress said in a post on X. What is the case? According to the Congress, Lochav, accompanied by his lawyers, submitted a written complaint to Delhi Police on August 14. The party claimed that the matter was followed up on August 17 through email and telephone calls, but no action was taken. The Congress also alleged that police neither provided an acknowledgement of the complaint nor an I/O number. Gandhi accompanied Lochav to the police station on Friday to demand registration of the case. The Congress maintained that the alleged offence was cognisable and that an FIR was therefore required to be registered. The police action came after Gandhi's protest at the station, with the Congress saying that the student's complaint had subsequently been converted into an FIR. There was no immediate detailed response from Delhi Police addressing the allegations or explaining the circumstances surrounding the registration of the case. Also Read: Indian President Murmu congratulates Bangladesh’s new president Alamgir Pellet gun controversy The alleged use of pellet guns during the July 20 CJP protest has emerged as a major point of contention, with the opposition and CJP increasing pressure on Delhi Police over its handling of the demonstrations. There has been no official confirmation that pellet guns were used against protesters. However, an entry in the Parliament Street Police Station's daily diary, as reported by Hindustan Times, recorded the use of anti-riot guns and plastic pellets by Rapid Action Force personnel during the protest. According to the reported diary entry, RAF personnel fired two rounds from anti-riot guns and used two rounds of plastic pellets while attempting to control the crowd. The alleged injuries have led to calls for an independent investigation into the police response, including claims of pellet injuries as well as the use of other crowd-control measures. On Thursday, the Supreme Court constituted a five-member high-powered enquiry committee headed by former judge Justice R Subhash Reddy to examine allegations of police excesses during the protests. The committee will examine allegations concerning pellet guns, electric batons, lathi charges, tear gas and other crowd-control measures.

<p>Delhi Police registers FIR over Sahil Lochav's alleged pellet injuries at Jantar Mantar protest after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna</p>

Delhi Police registers FIR over student's alleged pellet injuries after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna

<p>Delhi Police on Friday (Aug 21) granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a protest against India's reservation system at Ramlila Ground, hours after clarifying that no permission had been granted for a proposed demonstration at Jantar Mantar.</p><p>The NOC, issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central District, permits the "Reservation Hatao Andolan" to hold a peaceful protest at Ramlila Ground with a maximum of 500 people. The permission is valid until 4 pm on August 21.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-you-want-peace-prepare-for-war-naravane-warns-china-not-pakistan-is-india-s-main-competitor-1787283477651"><strong>'If you want peace, prepare for war': Ex-Army chief Manoj Naravane warns China, not Pakistan, is India's main competitor</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Permission granted for Ramlila Ground</strong></h2><p>According to a document shared by the Delhi Police on X, the request for an NOC to book Ramlila Ground for the protest was considered, and there was no objection to the gathering from a law-and-order perspective, subject to guidelines issued by Delhi Police.</p><p>The document specifically states that the permission is for a maximum of 500 people and is subject to the conditions laid down by the authorities.</p><p>It also makes clear that any type of procession or stay outside the permitted arrangements is not allowed. Organisers have been directed to comply with instructions and guidelines issued by the police, failing which the NOC can be revoked at any stage.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">PUBLIC NOTICE<br><br>The office bearers of Reservation Hatao Andolan have been intimated through this official communication. All are requested to adhere the lawful instructions and remain peaceful.<a href="https://x.com/LokNiwasDelhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lokniwasdelhi</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DPUpdates?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DPUpdates</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z5vqaLdH8i">pic.twitter.com/Z5vqaLdH8i</a></p>&mdash; Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) <a href="https://x.com/DelhiPolice/status/2090684061065093613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Earlier denial over Jantar Mantar protest</strong></h2><p>The development comes after Delhi Police earlier on Thursday (Aug 20) said that no permission had been granted for a protest over reservation reforms at Jantar Mantar on August 21.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-adds-indian-national-kamal-to-most-wanted-list-over-alleged-lawrence-bishnoi-gang-links-all-we-know-1787276426842"><strong>FBI adds Indian national Kamal to Most Wanted list over alleged Lawrence Bishnoi gang links: All we know</strong></a></p><p>Police had described videos circulating on social media claiming that permission had been granted for the Jantar Mantar protest as "false and misleading". It had also pointed out that prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS were in force in the New Delhi district.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pause, Verify, Then Share.<br><br>Not everything circulating online is true. <br>Always verify information through official and credible sources before believing, forwarding or sharing it.<a href="https://x.com/LokNiwasDelhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LokNiwasDelhi</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/DPUpdates?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DPUpdates</a> <a href="https://t.co/3h9EtjAAZt">pic.twitter.com/3h9EtjAAZt</a></p>&mdash; Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) <a href="https://x.com/DelhiPolice/status/2090358100289368170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Reservation Hatao Andolan calls protest</strong></h2><p>The development follows a call by the "Reservation Hatao Andolan" for a protest against the reservation system. The organisation had circulated a poster on Instagram urging people to gather at Jantar Mantar at 2 pm on August 21.</p><p>The latest police document, however, confirms permission for the protest at Ramlila Ground, not Jantar Mantar.</p>

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A protest against India's reservation system will go ahead at Ramlila Ground after Delhi Police denied permission for a proposed gathering at Jantar Mantar. The approved venue has a 500-person limit and strict conditions for organisers.

Delhi Police on Friday (Aug 21) granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a protest against India's reservation system at Ramlila Ground, hours after clarifying that no permission had been granted for a proposed demonstration at Jantar Mantar. The NOC, issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central District, permits the "Reservation Hatao Andolan" to hold a peaceful protest at Ramlila Ground with a maximum of 500 people. The permission is valid until 4 pm on August 21. Also read | 'If you want peace, prepare for war': Ex-Army chief Manoj Naravane warns China, not Pakistan, is India's main competitor Permission granted for Ramlila Ground According to a document shared by the Delhi Police on X, the request for an NOC to book Ramlila Ground for the protest was considered, and there was no objection to the gathering from a law-and-order perspective, subject to guidelines issued by Delhi Police. The document specifically states that the permission is for a maximum of 500 people and is subject to the conditions laid down by the authorities. It also makes clear that any type of procession or stay outside the permitted arrangements is not allowed. Organisers have been directed to comply with instructions and guidelines issued by the police, failing which the NOC can be revoked at any stage.

<p>A protest against India's reservation system will go ahead at Ramlila Ground after Delhi Police denied permission for a proposed gathering at Jantar Mantar. The approved venue has a 500-person limit and strict conditions for organisers.</p>

Delhi Police grants NOC for Reservation Hatao Andolan at Ramlila Ground after earlier denying protest permission for Jantar Mantar

<p>The Supreme Court constituted a five-member High-Powered Expert Committee (HPEC) on Thursday to probe the allegations of excessive and disproportionate use of force by the security personnel against protesters at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and other states against the NEET paper leak.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said the committee would be headed by former apex court judge Justice R Subhash Reddy and will comprise former Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice Ravi Shankar Jha, former Delhi High Court Judge Justice Shalinder Kaur, former CBI Director Rishi Kumar Shukla and retired Meghalaya DGP L R Bishnoi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lot-of-boats-coming-through-strait-of-hormuz-says-trump-admits-to-nuisance-of-iranian-drones-1787166376313"><strong>‘Lot of boats’ coming through Strait of Hormuz, says Trump, admits to ‘nuisance’ of Iranian drones</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This HPEC (High-Powered Enquiry Committee) has been constituted bearing in mind a wide variety of considerations, including the individual expertise and experience of each of its members, as well as the diversity of the Committee, among other factors,” the bench said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We are confident that the recommendations of the HPEC will be of invaluable assistance to this Court, and the Committee will be able to undertake a comprehensive assessment of all such issues as merit due contemplation,” it added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Preserve drone recordings, CCTV and bodycam footage’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The court has ordered the preservation of CCTV footage, drone recordings, body-cam footage, and PCR call records related to the protest to ensure that crucial evidence is not tampered with during the investigation and that the sequence of events can be examined independently.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The court also stressed protecting the personal data of protesters. It restrained the police from making such private information public.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The committee will also consider allegations by authorities of violence against police personnel and damage to public property.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-gets-miffed-by-us-ambassador-sergio-gor-s-j-k-important-part-of-india-remark-issues-demarche-1787157507821"><strong>Pakistan gets miffed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor’s ‘J&amp;K important part of India’ remark, issues demarche</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The top court said the enquiry by the committee shall not be a one-time exercise and asked the panel to undertake a continuous assessment of the issues and submit its interim findings periodically.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The top court directed that the allegations of harassment and molestation, particularly those involving female protesters, be treated as a priority. Additionally, an inquiry will be conducted into the serious and severe injuries sustained by protesters following police action.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Thousands of protesters, led by the Cockroach Janta Party, gave a call for a march on Parliament on July 20, the first day of the Monsoon Session, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak issue.</p><p>Police fired tear gas and used batons to disperse the protest, triggering clashes and a wave of detentions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Panel to probe allegations about use of excessive force</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The committee will investigate the allegations regarding the use of excessive force by police and other security agencies against protesters, including allegations concerning the use of pellet guns, electric batons, lathi-charges, and tear gas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It will also be considered whether the use of metallic pellets should be banned.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-prepared-to-defend-all-allies-after-reports-of-iran-mulling-attacks-on-us-targets-in-europe-1787141867863"><strong>NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The committee will examine how to strike a proper balance between maintaining law and order during protests and peaceful gatherings and upholding the constitutional right of citizens to protest peacefully.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The need for a system requiring police and security personnel to wear uniforms and clear nameplates during arrests or crowd control operations will be considered to ensure the identification and accountability of officers, the court said.</p><p>Besides, the allegations of police monitoring and surveillance of protesters will also be investigated to determine whether such surveillance was consistent with their constitutional rights to privacy and peaceful assembly.</p>

The Supreme Court ordered the preservation of CCTV footage, drone recordings, body-cam footage, and PCR call records related to the protest to ensure that crucial evidence is not tampered with during the investigation and that the sequence of events can be examined independently.

The Supreme Court constituted a five-member High-Powered Expert Committee (HPEC) on Thursday to probe the allegations of excessive and disproportionate use of force by the security personnel against protesters at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and other states against the NEET paper leak. A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said the committee would be headed by former apex court judge Justice R Subhash Reddy and will comprise former Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice Ravi Shankar Jha, former Delhi High Court Judge Justice Shalinder Kaur, former CBI Director Rishi Kumar Shukla and retired Meghalaya DGP L R Bishnoi. Also Read: ‘Lot of boats’ coming through Strait of Hormuz, says Trump, admits to ‘nuisance’ of Iranian drones “This HPEC (High-Powered Enquiry Committee) has been constituted bearing in mind a wide variety of considerations, including the individual expertise and experience of each of its members, as well as the diversity of the Committee, among other factors,” the bench said. “We are confident that the recommendations of the HPEC will be of invaluable assistance to this Court, and the Committee will be able to undertake a comprehensive assessment of all such issues as merit due contemplation,” it added. ‘Preserve drone recordings, CCTV and bodycam footage’ The court has ordered the preservation of CCTV footage, drone recordings, body-cam footage, and PCR call records related to the protest to ensure that crucial evidence is not tampered with during the investigation and that the sequence of events can be examined independently. The court also stressed protecting the personal data of protesters. It restrained the police from making such private information public. The committee will also consider allegations by authorities of violence against police personnel and damage to public property. Also Read: Pakistan gets miffed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor’s ‘J&K important part of India’ remark, issues demarche The top court said the enquiry by the committee shall not be a one-time exercise and asked the panel to undertake a continuous assessment of the issues and submit its interim findings periodically. The top court directed that the allegations of harassment and molestation, particularly those involving female protesters, be treated as a priority. Additionally, an inquiry will be conducted into the serious and severe injuries sustained by protesters following police action. Thousands of protesters, led by the Cockroach Janta Party, gave a call for a march on Parliament on July 20, the first day of the Monsoon Session, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak issue. Police fired tear gas and used batons to disperse the protest, triggering clashes and a wave of detentions. Panel to probe allegations about use of excessive force The committee will investigate the allegations regarding the use of excessive force by police and other security agencies against protesters, including allegations concerning the use of pellet guns, electric batons, lathi-charges, and tear gas. It will also be considered whether the use of metallic pellets should be banned. Also Read: NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe The committee will examine how to strike a proper balance between maintaining law and order during protests and peaceful gatherings and upholding the constitutional right of citizens to protest peacefully. The need for a system requiring police and security personnel to wear uniforms and clear nameplates during arrests or crowd control operations will be considered to ensure the identification and accountability of officers, the court said. Besides, the allegations of police monitoring and surveillance of protesters will also be investigated to determine whether such surveillance was consistent with their constitutional rights to privacy and peaceful assembly.

<p>The Supreme Court ordered the preservation of CCTV footage, drone recordings, body-cam footage, and PCR call records related to the protest to ensure that crucial evidence is not tampered with during the investigation and that the sequence of events can be examined independently.</p>

Supreme Court sets up 5-member committee to probe cops’ use of force, violence at NEET protests

<p>The Delhi Police has filed a counter-affidavit before the Supreme Court on Tuesday (Jul 18) and has defended its use of force against student protesters during the July 20 “Sansad Chalo” protest march. The police also defended plainclothes personnel and highlighted the restrictions imposed in and around the protest site. The police stated in the affidavit that it resorted to a “graded” response only after the gathering ceased to remain peaceful, with sections of the crowd breaching multiple layers of barricades and attempting to move towards Parliament. The CJI-led bench is expected to consider the police’s response for hearing later today.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reckless-reporting-cji-surya-kant-denies-rejecting-plea-on-delhi-police-brutality-amid-protests-1784880729300">‘Reckless reporting’: CJI Surya Kant denies rejecting plea on Delhi Police brutality amid protests</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Delhi Police also defended the presence of ‘plainclothes personnel’ stating that they were “spotters” drawn from the Special Branch, Special Cell, Crime Branch and local police who had strategically merged with the crowd because of the urgency of the situation. It had previously claimed that 2,873 persons at the protest site had criminal cases registered against them, including allegations relating to murder, attempt to murder, dacoity, rape and offences under the POCSO Act.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the use of facial-recognition technology at the protest site, the Delhi Police has defended the deployment as a “proportionate policing measure”, while denying that it amounted to indiscriminate surveillance of protesters. The police claimed that no action is taken solely on the basis of a facial-recognition match. Further, the police mentioned that as per Standing Order prior police permission for demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, caps the gathering at 1,000 persons, and prohibits marches from the designated protest site except a limited symbolic march with prior permission.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-did-bihar-cop-fire-ak-47-state-govt-tells-supreme-court-he-was-trapped-in-crowd-1787032702101">Why did Bihar cop fire AK-47? State govt tells Supreme Court he was 'trapped in crowd'</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Deputy commissioner of Police Sachin Sharma said that the allegation of excessive force was unsustainable given the scale of the gathering. He said that about 5,000 police personnel were deployed to manage more than 30,000 protesters spread across nearly three kilometres. On the allegation that police personnel used lathis fitted with nails, the affidavit stated that examination of the available videos showed one solitary instance of such an object. It maintains that lathis form part of permissible crowd-control equipment and were used only to contain groups of protesters who, according to the police, had begun attacking personnel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Delhi Police has defended its “graded” use of force during the July 20 Sansad Chalo protest, telling the Supreme Court that protesters breached barricades and moved towards Parliament. It cited injuries to over 240 personnel and around 200 protesters amid the 30,000-strong gathering.

The Delhi Police has filed a counter-affidavit before the Supreme Court on Tuesday (Jul 18) and has defended its use of force against student protesters during the July 20 “Sansad Chalo” protest march. The police also defended plainclothes personnel and highlighted the restrictions imposed in and around the protest site. The police stated in the affidavit that it resorted to a “graded” response only after the gathering ceased to remain peaceful, with sections of the crowd breaching multiple layers of barricades and attempting to move towards Parliament. The CJI-led bench is expected to consider the police’s response for hearing later today. Also Read: ‘Reckless reporting’: CJI Surya Kant denies rejecting plea on Delhi Police brutality amid protests The Delhi Police also defended the presence of ‘plainclothes personnel’ stating that they were “spotters” drawn from the Special Branch, Special Cell, Crime Branch and local police who had strategically merged with the crowd because of the urgency of the situation. It had previously claimed that 2,873 persons at the protest site had criminal cases registered against them, including allegations relating to murder, attempt to murder, dacoity, rape and offences under the POCSO Act. On the use of facial-recognition technology at the protest site, the Delhi Police has defended the deployment as a “proportionate policing measure”, while denying that it amounted to indiscriminate surveillance of protesters. The police claimed that no action is taken solely on the basis of a facial-recognition match. Further, the police mentioned that as per Standing Order prior police permission for demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, caps the gathering at 1,000 persons, and prohibits marches from the designated protest site except a limited symbolic march with prior permission. Also Read: Why did Bihar cop fire AK-47? State govt tells Supreme Court he was 'trapped in crowd' Deputy commissioner of Police Sachin Sharma said that the allegation of excessive force was unsustainable given the scale of the gathering. He said that about 5,000 police personnel were deployed to manage more than 30,000 protesters spread across nearly three kilometres. On the allegation that police personnel used lathis fitted with nails, the affidavit stated that examination of the available videos showed one solitary instance of such an object. It maintains that lathis form part of permissible crowd-control equipment and were used only to contain groups of protesters who, according to the police, had begun attacking personnel.

<p>Delhi Police has defended its “graded” use of force during the July 20 Sansad Chalo protest, telling the Supreme Court that protesters breached barricades and moved towards Parliament. It cited injuries to over 240 personnel and around 200 protesters amid the 30,000-strong gathering.</p>

Delhi Police deny excessive use of force during Jantar Mantar protest, says plainclothes personnel were 'spotters'

<p>Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-linked political commentator TG Mohandas was taken into police custody from his residence in Mattancherry, Kochi, by a team of the Thiruvananthapuram City Cyber Crime Police late on Sunday (Aug 9). He was taken into custody over his alleged remarks targeting students who protested at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar over the NEET paper leak. In a video uploaded on July 26, Mohandas described how he would have dealt with the protesters if he were in charge of the situation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mohandas allegedly batted for open firing open students and said that the women participating in the protest were “rape-loving.” He further said he would impose a curfew in a four-square-kilometre area around Jantar Mantar and ask the protesters three times to disperse. He then said, “Then I would shoot. People would scatter and run. Some may die. Some may not. Some will suffer grave injuries." He also said the situation would be brought under control within four hours and that the bodies would be taken to hospital. In another video, Mohandas allegedly referred to women from left-wing, secular and democratic backgrounds as “rape-loving people" and said women who were a part of the protest “enjoy being gang-raped".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mohandas later defended his comments, saying they were hypothetical and satirical and arguing that the context of his Malayalam remarks was lost in translation.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">STORY | Right-wing commentator Mohandas held over NEET protest remarks, BJP calls action ‘discriminatory’<br><br>Right-wing political commentator T G Mohandas was taken into custody from his residence in Mattancherry here on Sunday over remarks he allegedly made in a YouTube video… <a href="https://t.co/oS4Si9iH0I">pic.twitter.com/oS4Si9iH0I</a></p>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2086521128512831831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What RSS said on TG Mohandas' remark?</h2><p>The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) distanced itself from the remarks, saying they represented Mohandas’ personal views and that he does not hold an official position in the organisation. Meanwhile, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat began his Gen Z outreach as he interacted with youngsters in Mumbai. Speaking about the protests held by Cockroach Janta Party demanding resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan in the NEET paper leak, Bhagwat said "protest is a method to have consensus" and "not to create divisions". "As far as Gen Z is concerned, what happened recently - their grievance is genuine. A lot needs to be done in India's education system, and it is not being done; so, this is being raised," said the RSS chief. Bhagwat added that India's younger generation should not be labelled anti-national and that Gen Z and Gen Alpha are "more honest" than the existing generation.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;If Gen Z is protesting, they are not anti-nationals&quot;<br><br>RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat says India&#39;s younger generation should not be labelled anti-national, adding that Gen Z and Gen Alpha are &quot;more honest&quot; than the existing generation<br>.<br>.<br>.<br>.<br>Video: ANI <a href="https://t.co/m7DDOTmagm">pic.twitter.com/m7DDOTmagm</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2085358786064290006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

RSS-linked commentator T G Mohandas was taken into custody by Kerala Cyber Crime Police over alleged remarks targeting NEET paper leak protesters at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. In a July 26 video, he said he would impose curfew and order police firing to disperse protesters.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-linked political commentator TG Mohandas was taken into police custody from his residence in Mattancherry, Kochi, by a team of the Thiruvananthapuram City Cyber Crime Police late on Sunday (Aug 9). He was taken into custody over his alleged remarks targeting students who protested at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar over the NEET paper leak. In a video uploaded on July 26, Mohandas described how he would have dealt with the protesters if he were in charge of the situation. Mohandas allegedly batted for open firing open students and said that the women participating in the protest were “rape-loving.” He further said he would impose a curfew in a four-square-kilometre area around Jantar Mantar and ask the protesters three times to disperse. He then said, “Then I would shoot. People would scatter and run. Some may die. Some may not. Some will suffer grave injuries." He also said the situation would be brought under control within four hours and that the bodies would be taken to hospital. In another video, Mohandas allegedly referred to women from left-wing, secular and democratic backgrounds as “rape-loving people" and said women who were a part of the protest “enjoy being gang-raped". Mohandas later defended his comments, saying they were hypothetical and satirical and arguing that the context of his Malayalam remarks was lost in translation.

<p>RSS-linked commentator T G Mohandas was taken into custody by Kerala Cyber Crime Police over alleged remarks targeting NEET paper leak protesters at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. In a July 26 video, he said he would impose curfew and order police firing to disperse protesters.</p>

RSS commentator TG Mohandas taken into custody over 'rape-loving' remark on women during Jantar Mantar protest | WATCH

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a video message to the nation on Friday said he would like to forgive those who used foul language not only against him but also his late mother at the Jantar Mantar protests held in Delhi by the Cockroach Janta Party demanding resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan for the NEET paper leaks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said that the youngsters who used such languages were misguided and urged people to guide them rather than punish.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"What happened at Jantar Mantar has been seen by the country and the world, said Modi adding &nbsp;"Some misguided youngsters used language that has no place in any civilised society. I was abused, and even my late mother was abused."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He further said that it is the duty of the society to show these youngsters the right path rather than lodging cases against them and putting them behind bars.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Abuses never solve anything, let's guide the misguided and let's work together", in this direction, Modi further said.</p><h2>FIR against protester who used expletives against PM</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This comes after some protesters at the Jantar Mantar in Delhi used expletives against the Prime Minister. An FIR was also filed against one such protester named Ruchika Singh.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Expressway police station in Noida filed an FIR against Ruchika on Wednesday based on a complaint filed by a Ghaziabad resident over allegations that she used foul language against the Prime Minister during a protest organised at Jantar Mantar on July 23.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The FIR was registered under Sections 352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace), 353(1) (statements conducing to public mischief) and 356(1) (defamation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The case is likely to be transferred to Delhi soon as the incident where it happened was at Jantar Mantar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The complaint stated that her comments insulted the dignity of the Prime Minister's office and could spread disharmony and disturb public peace.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

He further said that it is the duty of the society to show these youngsters the right path rather than lodging cases against them and putting them behind bars.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a video message to the nation on Friday said he would like to forgive those who used foul language not only against him but also his late mother at the Jantar Mantar protests held in Delhi by the Cockroach Janta Party demanding resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan for the NEET paper leaks. He said that the youngsters who used such languages were misguided and urged people to guide them rather than punish. "What happened at Jantar Mantar has been seen by the country and the world, said Modi adding "Some misguided youngsters used language that has no place in any civilised society. I was abused, and even my late mother was abused." He further said that it is the duty of the society to show these youngsters the right path rather than lodging cases against them and putting them behind bars. "Abuses never solve anything, let's guide the misguided and let's work together", in this direction, Modi further said. FIR against protester who used expletives against PM This comes after some protesters at the Jantar Mantar in Delhi used expletives against the Prime Minister. An FIR was also filed against one such protester named Ruchika Singh. Expressway police station in Noida filed an FIR against Ruchika on Wednesday based on a complaint filed by a Ghaziabad resident over allegations that she used foul language against the Prime Minister during a protest organised at Jantar Mantar on July 23. The FIR was registered under Sections 352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace), 353(1) (statements conducing to public mischief) and 356(1) (defamation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The case is likely to be transferred to Delhi soon as the incident where it happened was at Jantar Mantar. The complaint stated that her comments insulted the dignity of the Prime Minister's office and could spread disharmony and disturb public peace.

<p>He further said that it is the duty of the society to show these youngsters the right path rather than lodging cases against them and putting them behind bars.</p>

'Let's guide the misguided': PM Modi's message amid row over expletives used against him at Jantar Mantar

<p>Two days after a complaint was filed against Ruchika Singh for allegedly using expletives against Prime Minister Narendra Modi &nbsp;during a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 23, Ruchika's mother &nbsp;reportedly told the salon owner that an apology letter had already been submitted to police officials.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We have already given an apology letter to the police officials. We are very sorry about what has happened", Ruchika’s mother was quoted as saying by News18.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Expressway police station in Noida filed an FIR against Ruchika on Wednesday based on a complaint filed by a Ghaziabad resident over allegations that she used foul language against the Prime Minister during a protest organised at Jantar Mantar on July 23.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The FIR was registered under Sections 352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace), 353(1) (statements conducing to public mischief) and 356(1) (defamation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The case is likely to be transferred to Delhi soon as the incident where it happened was at Jantar Mantar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The complaint stated that her comments insulted the dignity of the Prime Minister's office and could spread disharmony and disturb public peace.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Who is Ruchika Singh?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As reported by various media organisations Ruchika Singh works at a salon and owns a house in Noida. Police said she is a resident of Sector 168 in the city.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She came to limelight after a video of her using abusive and objectionable language against the prime minister surfaced online and went viral.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The clip led to outrage and complaints being filed against her for the unparliamentary language she used for the PM.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After the protest controversy erupted Ruchika went traceless. Police teams from Delhi and Noida, carrying out the investigation visited her resident in Noida and collected details from the management and staff about her.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Expressway police station in Noida filed an FIR against Ruchika on Wednesday based on a complaint filed by a Ghaziabad resident.

Two days after a complaint was filed against Ruchika Singh for allegedly using expletives against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 23, Ruchika's mother reportedly told the salon owner that an apology letter had already been submitted to police officials. “We have already given an apology letter to the police officials. We are very sorry about what has happened", Ruchika’s mother was quoted as saying by News18. Expressway police station in Noida filed an FIR against Ruchika on Wednesday based on a complaint filed by a Ghaziabad resident over allegations that she used foul language against the Prime Minister during a protest organised at Jantar Mantar on July 23. The FIR was registered under Sections 352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace), 353(1) (statements conducing to public mischief) and 356(1) (defamation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The case is likely to be transferred to Delhi soon as the incident where it happened was at Jantar Mantar. The complaint stated that her comments insulted the dignity of the Prime Minister's office and could spread disharmony and disturb public peace. Who is Ruchika Singh? As reported by various media organisations Ruchika Singh works at a salon and owns a house in Noida. Police said she is a resident of Sector 168 in the city. She came to limelight after a video of her using abusive and objectionable language against the prime minister surfaced online and went viral. The clip led to outrage and complaints being filed against her for the unparliamentary language she used for the PM. After the protest controversy erupted Ruchika went traceless. Police teams from Delhi and Noida, carrying out the investigation visited her resident in Noida and collected details from the management and staff about her.

<p>Expressway police station in Noida filed an FIR against Ruchika on Wednesday based on a complaint filed by a Ghaziabad resident.</p>

Who is Ruchika Singh, booked for using foul language against PM Modi at Jantar Mantar protests?

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Who is Ruchika Singh, booked for using foul language against PM Modi?