New Delhi: Delhi Police is facing mounting criticism for failing to disclose the full extent of force used against student protesters during the Cockroach Janata Party's march to Parliament, with allegations that key operational details are being withheld to evade accountability.
The July 20 protest sparked controversy after police initially denied using pellet guns against demonstrators. However, a General Diary entry filed by Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel at Parliament Street Police Station reportedly confirmed that two rounds of pellet ammunition were fired on the instructions of a Deputy Commissioner of Police.
More than ten days after the clash, authorities have yet to release a comprehensive account of the weapons deployed, prompting accusations of a deliberate cover-up. A former Director General of Police alleged that the lack of transparency was aimed at shielding officials from criticism over the heavy-handed crowd-control operation.
The opposition has held Union Home Minister Amit Shah, under whose ministry Delhi Police functions, directly responsible for the crackdown, demanding his resignation and calling for an independent probe under the supervision of the Supreme Court.
Videos circulating on social media showed security personnel using batons, tear gas and physical force against protesters at Jantar Mantar, Sansad Marg and other locations. Protesters also alleged that some police batons were fitted with nails. At least four people, including 19-year-old Delhi University student Saril Lochab, reportedly suffered pellet injuries, with reports indicating he could lose vision in one eye.
Following the backlash, RAF Inspector General Seema Dhundia reportedly directed personnel to follow sensitive policing principles and suspended the use and issuance of anti-riot guns and electric shock weapons during deployment in Delhi until further orders.