The SC stated that state governments, including Delhi, can close FIRs against students protesting the NEET paper leak, if the cases are not serious crimes. Chief Justice Surya Kant noted that prosecution was previously allowed only for serious offenses by protesters with criminal histories. On July 20, the court reviewed petitions regarding excessive police actions against students and requests from families of injured police personnel for action against alleged perpetrators.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta affirmed the government’s dedication to student relief, noting that criminal law prohibits direct FIR withdrawals and allows for closure reports or prosecution withdrawal via courts. The Bench will provide guidelines for police pellet gun usage during protests and may set up a Special Investigation Team or committee led by a retired judge to probe police excesses, with another hearing set for August 18.
