New Delhi-The Supreme Court has made significant observations regarding the police lathi charge on students during the July 20 protests over the NEET paper leak issue. The Court emphasized that every citizen has a constitutionally protected right to hold peaceful demonstrations and that police cannot resort to force solely because a protest is taking place.

The observations came during the hearing of petitions seeking an independent investigation into the police action during the students' "Parliament March." The petitions challenge the use of lathi charge and tear gas against demonstrators and seek judicial directions for preserving CCTV footage, body-camera recordings, and other electronic evidence related to the incident.

The petitioners have also demanded compensation for students and protesters who were injured during the police action. According to the petitions, the protesters were attempting to raise their demands peacefully when force was allegedly used against them.

On July 20, thousands of students marched toward Parliament demanding action over the NEET paper leak controversy. As the protesters approached restricted areas, a confrontation took place between police and demonstrators. Police used lathi charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to widespread criticism and further intensifying the nationwide movement.

The issue also disrupted parliamentary proceedings, with opposition MPs expressing solidarity with the protesting students and demanding the resignation of the Education Minister. They argued that the concerns of students should be addressed through dialogue rather than force.

Following weeks of demonstrations, talks between the government and protest representatives resulted in an agreement on the key demands of the movement. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan subsequently resigned, bringing the 36-day protest to an end.

The Supreme Court's remarks have reinforced the constitutional importance of peaceful protest while highlighting that maintaining law and order must remain consistent with fundamental rights. The Court is expected to continue hearing the matter regarding an independent inquiry and related relief sought by the petitioners.