Withdraw cases, allow youngsters to continue studies: SC to states
The Supreme Court permitted governments to withdraw cases against student protesters. This move aims to allow students to pursue their studies without prosecution fears. However, cases against individuals with criminal records will not be dropped. The court will also establish guidelines for the use of graded force by police. Discussions on modalities for dropping cases against genuine students…
In a move aimed at easing the concerns of student protesters, the Supreme Court has allowed the Delhi and state governments to withdraw or close First Information Reports (FIRs) filed during the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak protests across India. The court's decision comes after solicitor general Tushar Mehta informed the bench that the government is committed to honoring its promise regarding the withdrawal of cases against the student protesters.
However, FIRs lodged against individuals with criminal antecedents, accused of serious offenses like rape, murder, and child sexual abuse under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (POCSO), will not be dropped.
The court emphasized that the withdrawn cases should not deter students from pursuing their education. Chief Justice Surya Kant expressed concern that the cases should not interfere with students' studies, stating that their cases should be handled differently to ensure they continue their education without fear of prosecution. The court is working on guidelines for the future use of graded force, including the potential use of pellet guns, in consultation with a high-powered committee chaired by a former Supreme Court judge. The court also posted the matter for further hearing on August 18.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
