Force of law: On the Delhi police
This opinion piece criticizes the Delhi police for their handling of student protesters and their use of surveillance technology. The author argues that the police force lacks accountability and is acting in ways that undermine the rule of law and democratic expression.
Why it matters
The article highlights ongoing tensions between state security apparatuses and civil liberties in India.
The extent and the nature of police action, which continues in Delhi against student protesters, remain a matter of grave concern for India’s democracy. The Supreme Court of India is seized of the matter , but it has done little so far to restrain the police, which appears to be acting outside of the law. To have an independent inquiry that examines the allegations being raised — as is being considered by the Court — is one thing. But an accountable police force would have swiftly acted to preserve its own honour and reputation, considering what is already available in the public domain. Its male officers in uniform appear in videos slapping a woman protester, and attempting to bring down a lathi on the private parts of a girl.
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