"One-Sided Picture": Delhi Police To Supreme Court On Jantar Mantar 'Crackdown'
Delhi Police defended their use of facial recognition and biometric surveillance during a protest march, claiming the measures were necessary to identify criminals. The police affidavit denies allegations of excessive force, asserting that protesters turned violent and targeted officers.
Why it matters
The case highlights the ongoing tension between the right to protest and the use of advanced surveillance technology by state authorities.
The police in Delhi have defended their use of facial recognition technology and other biometric surveillance measures during the recent student protests at Jantar Mantar, saying they were scanning criminals during the demonstrations.In an affidavit defending their action during the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) "Sansad Chalo" protest march on July 20, the police also denied using "excessive force".They submitted that while the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental right, the agitation at Jantar Mantar escalated into violence.Protesters run as security personnel fire tear gas shells during the protest by Cockroach Janta Party near Jantar Mantar on July 20Photo Credit: ANIThey said the personnel exercised "maximum restraint" while using only the "minimum required force" to control thousands of protesters.The affidavit, filed in response to the petitions seeking a court-monitored investigation into an alleged police crackdown, said that an application by the CJP sought permission to hold a peaceful demonstration with…
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