India's 'cockroach' protesters have wounds consistent with pellet-gun fire, say experts
Independent ballistic experts have confirmed that protesters in Delhi sustained injuries consistent with pellet-gun fire during recent demonstrations. The government has not officially acknowledged the use of these weapons, despite reports of widespread violence and injuries among both protesters and police.
Why it matters
The use of pellet guns against civilians is a highly controversial human rights issue, and confirmation of their use by security forces raises significant concerns regarding state accountability and protest management.
Image source, Congress Party Image caption, The face and body of Sahil Lochab, who appeared with opposition leader Rahul Gandhi at a press conference, are peppered with tiny holes
Independent ballistic experts have told the BBC that injuries sustained by some Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) supporters during last week's protest in the Indian capital were caused by pellet guns.
Warning: This story contains images some might find distressing
Central Delhi witnessed overwhelming violence on 20 July when tens of thousands of protesters tried to march to the parliament to seek education reforms and the resignation of the education minister.
Police and paramilitary personnel were seen brutally attacking the crowds with wooden sticks, batons and tear gas. Delhi Police said 60 protesters and 118 of their personnel were injured. CJP said the number of injured protesters was a lot higher than the official count.
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