Pellet gun usage: Major incidents that shaped the crowd-control debate
A recent protest in New Delhi has reignited the debate over the use of pellet guns for crowd control after reports of serious injuries. Despite police denials, evidence suggests these weapons were used, leading to political calls for accountability.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding human rights and the use of force by security agencies in democratic protests.
The Rapid Action Force’s (RAF) unwarranted use of pellet guns on protesters during the July 20, 2026, Parliament march has invited a barrage of scrutiny and criticism regarding its actions. The recent incident has sparked fresh tensions over the alleged use of pellet guns on civilians, with Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi demanding Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s resignation.
On July 29, 2026, Union Minister Jitendra Singh refuted the allegations, claiming that “utmost restraint” was observed during the protest. A similar stance was reiterated by the Delhi Police , denying any use of pellet guns during the Sansad march.
LoP Rahul Gandhi, along with a victim of alleged pellet gun firing, during a students protest march carried out by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), in New Delhi on July 20, 2026. | Photo Credit: PTI
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