New Delhi
oi-Swastika Sruti
The Delhi police has begun the process of registering an FIR over a complaint alleging that 19 year old protester Sahil Lochab suffered pellet injuries during the July 20 protest near Jantar Mantar, stated police officials.
Delhi Police began registering an FIR following allegations that protester Sahil Lochab sustained pellet injuries during the July 20 protest near Jantar Mantar. Police deny using pellet guns, while a Supreme Court-appointed panel is also examining the incident.
The development came on the same day that Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi staged a dharna outside the Parliament Street Police Station, demanding that the police formally register Lochab’s complaint and investigate the alleged use of pellet guns during the protest.
What Is The July 20 Protest Case?
This issue stems from the ‘Chalo Sansad’ agitation held by the CJP in July 20. This was being done for justice about the exam scam and those affected by it.
During the protest, some of the agitators tried to head towards the Parliament building. They were stopped by security officials, resulting in a clash between the agitators and the police.
Following the clash, some of the agitators accused police of using excess force to break up their protest. One of these agitators is Sahil Lochab, who had pellets on him during the clash.
This allegation turned into a political issue following Gandhi’s meeting with Lochab.
Why Did Rahul Gandhi Protest At The Police Station?
Gandhi reached the Parliament Street Police Station with Lochab on Friday following the youngster’s alleged inability to get an FIR registered in connection with his complaint.
Gandhi had previously asked for an inquiry into the use of the pellet guns, as well as the injuries sustained by Lochab, which raised questions regarding his eyesight.
Following consultations with the top brass of the police, Gandhi held a dharna outside the DCP Office at the police station. The Congress contended that non-registration of the FIR was a denial of justice and that the allegations need to be investigated formally.
Police Had Denied Using Pellet Guns
The Delhi Police has also refuted the claim that the use of pellet guns on the students took place during the protest.
This is an essential aspect of the context since there is a difference between the story told by the police and the protestors regarding what occurred during the clash.
Whereas Lochab claims that he was hurt by pellets, police officers deny any reports of the security officers using the pellet guns on the protestors.
The FIR proceedings about to take place will be important as it will enable the police to investigate the situation.
Supreme Court-Appointed Panel Is Also Examining The Matter
The alleged use of force during the protests is not being examined only through the police complaint. A high-powered committee appointed by the Supreme Court is also looking into allegations of excessive and disproportionate use of force during the demonstrations.
The committee’s examination adds another layer to the controversy, particularly over questions surrounding how protesters were handled during the July 20 confrontation.
