Assam, Bihar drop all NEET protest cases against students

New Delhi: The Assam and Bihar governments have announced the withdrawal of all criminal cases registered against students who participated in protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination, while directing authorities to halt further legal action against the protesters, IANS reported.

In Assam, the Home and Political Department said five cases registered across the state in connection with the protests had led to the arrest of 13 people. The government ordered the withdrawal of all cases, regardless of the stage of legal proceedings, and directed authorities to review all arrests and detentions and expedite the release of those held. It also said no further adverse legal action would be initiated against persons covered under the registered cases. The order, signed by Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Tewari, stated that the matter would be treated as closed.

The Bihar Home Department similarly announced the withdrawal of all FIRs and related legal proceedings registered up to 6 p.m. on July 26. The decision followed a review ordered by the Chief Minister and was taken to ensure that students' education and careers were not adversely affected. The government also clarified that no further legal action would be taken against students covered by the order.

The NEET-UG examination triggered protests across both states over allegations of irregularities and concerns over a paper leak. In Bihar, demonstrations led to cases involving charges such as assault on public servants, unlawful assembly, obstruction of government officials and damage to public property.

The Bihar government's decision was welcomed by student organisations and parents. AISA president Neha Bora urged authorities to fully implement the order by ensuring the release of all detained students and the withdrawal of every FIR covered by the notification.