New Delhi: Delhi Police has decided to initiate passport cancellation proceedings against individuals found to have participated in rioting during violent protests, in addition to taking action under existing legal provisions. The move signals a tougher approach towards those accused of involvement in violence during public demonstrations.
The decision comes in the wake of clashes that broke out during the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on Monday, when protesters allegedly attempted to breach security barricades near Parliament.
Action follows clashes near Parliament
According to police, the confrontation escalated after protesters tried to cross security barricades around Parliament.
Security personnel responded by using tear gas shells, lathi charge and anti-riot vehicles to disperse the crowd.
Several protesters and police personnel reportedly sustained minor injuries during the clashes.
The CJP claimed that its founder Abhijeet Dipke was detained during the police action.
Officials said legal proceedings are underway against those accused of participating in acts of violence, with passport cancellation now being considered as an additional measure.
CJP announces nationwide protest
Following the incident, the Cockroach Janata Party announced a nationwide peaceful protest on July 24, calling upon supporters to organise demonstrations in every district.
The party said the protests are intended to highlight the alleged police action against students participating in demonstrations over the NEET issue.
It appealed to student unions and organisations across the country to coordinate local protests, publicly read out the students’ demands and express solidarity with those affected during the recent agitation.
Protest movement gathers momentum
The agitation over the alleged NEET irregularities had largely been confined to Jantar Mantar, where students and activists had been holding demonstrations demanding reforms in the examination system and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
However, organisers said participation increased significantly after Monday’s confrontation with police.
Several demonstrators reportedly stated that videos of the police action encouraged many first-time participants to join the movement.
Political exchanges intensify
The student agitation has also triggered sharp political exchanges.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alleging that the opposition had not honoured its commitment despite the government’s agreement to hold a discussion on the alleged NEET irregularities in Parliament.
Meanwhile, Congress leaders continued their sit-in protest outside the Prime Minister’s residence, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a discussion on the NEET issue in Parliament and an inquiry into the alleged police action against students.
Earlier in the day, several Congress MPs and senior leaders also staged a demonstration outside 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, seeking the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the handling of the protests.
Sonam Wangchuk outlines conditions
Social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike for 25 days over the alleged NEET irregularities, issued a letter on Wednesday outlining the conditions under which he would end his fast.
He sought an assurance from the government that students who participated in the July 20 march would not face punitive action.
The letter did not repeat his earlier demand for the resignation of the Union Education Minister, a move viewed by some as a moderation of his earlier position.
Wangchuk stated that Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh, who met him in hospital earlier this week, had assured him that his demand regarding the Education Minister would be considered.
Investigation continues
Delhi Police said investigations into the violence are continuing and that legal action will be taken against those found responsible under applicable laws.
Officials indicated that, in addition to criminal proceedings, passport cancellation may be pursued in cases where individuals are found to have engaged in rioting during violent protests.
The developments come as authorities remain on alert ahead of the CJP’s proposed nationwide demonstrations and continuing protests over the alleged NEET examination irregularities.