Maharashtra government decides to withdraw FIRs against protesters; police continue investigation
The Maharashtra government has ordered the withdrawal of FIRs against student protesters, but police continue to issue notices and conduct investigations. Legal experts note that formal withdrawal requires specific procedural steps, leading to ongoing confusion and fear among the student community.
Why it matters
The situation illustrates the friction between political directives and established legal procedures in India, impacting the civil liberties of student activists.
The Maharashtra government has announced the withdrawal of First Information Reports (FIRs) registered against students and youth involved in recent protests. However, legal procedures, including the recording of statements and issuance of notices, continue as the investigation remains active. On July 28, some protesters received FIR notices via WhatsApp, leading to fresh allegations from student organisations.
A day after the State government directed the Home Department to withdraw cases against protesters, the Mumbai Police have stated that investigation procedures will continue until a formal order to halt the process is received. This development has created confusion among the student community and activists.
The decision to withdraw the cases came after a joint delegation of the All India Students’ Federation (AISF) met the Director General of Police and the Commissioner of Police. The delegations demanded an end to police harassment and the withdrawal of all FIRs lodged against peaceful demonstrators.
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