NHRC issues notice to U.P. DGP, Home Secretary over alleged police excess during Meerut protest
The National Human Rights Commission has issued notices to Uttar Pradesh officials regarding allegations of police brutality during a protest in Meerut. The demonstration was held to demand justice for the murder of a 20-year-old student, with complainants alleging custodial torture and excessive force.
Why it matters
This highlights ongoing concerns regarding police accountability and human rights protections in India's law enforcement practices.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday (July 10, 2026) issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) and the State Home Secretary over allegations that police used excessive force against protesters during a demonstration in Meerut held on July 8 demanding justice in the murder case of a Dalit woman.
The notice was issued after an NHRC Bench headed by member Priyank Kanoongo took cognisance of a complaint filed by Sunil Ahirwar of Bhopal under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
The Commission directed the U.P Home Secretary and the DGP to submit an action taken report within 15 days for its consideration.
According to the complaint, police carried out an “unprovoked, brutal lathi-charge” on participants in what was described as a peaceful public demonstration, that left several protesters with severe injuries.
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