NEET protest: All SOPs followed, pellet gun use on protesters authorised - CRPF review
The CRPF has defended its use of pellet guns during the July 20 anti-NEET protests in Delhi, stating that all standard operating procedures and force gradients were followed. The force maintains that the action was authorized by local police after protesters allegedly attacked personnel with stones and iron rails.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding protest management and the use of 'non-lethal' force by security agencies in India, with the matter currently under judicial review.
NEW DELHI: All standard operating procedures (SOPs) and anti-riot drills were followed during the July 20 police action against anti-NEET leak protesters, which included the authorised use of "non-lethal" means like pellet gun, a CRPF post-event analysis has said.CRPF sources told TOI that upon carefully examining the response of its anti-riot unit, Rapid Action Force, it is evident that force gradient was followed, with pump action gun being used only after lower-grade measures like public announcements for crowd dispersal, tear gas and lathicharge failed to effectively control the mob. Around 3-5 protesters were injured by the metal pellets. Also, 47 RAF personnel were injured, with six sustaining head injuries.When contacted, CRPF DG G P Singh said the matter was "sub judice" and any findings or view of the force on RAF action would be placed before Supreme Court.
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