Supreme Court Considers SIT for Fair Investigation into Student Protest Violence

The Supreme Court is deliberating the establishment of a Special Investigation Team to ensure a thorough inquiry into the violence that erupted during recent student protests. The court emphasized the need for accountability regarding police actions against students protesting irregularities in exams and the NEET paper leak. As the hearing progresses, the court is also looking into the assaults on police personnel during these protests. This situation raises critical questions about the balance between the right to protest and the enforcement of law and order.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 28, 2026, 13:50 IST

Supreme Court's Response to Student Protests

New Delhi: On Tuesday, the Supreme Court indicated the potential establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a comprehensive and impartial inquiry into the violent incidents that occurred during recent student protests. The court emphasized that legal action must follow any breaches of established protocols.

Addressing a series of petitions that claimed police brutality against students protesting exam irregularities and the NEET paper leak, a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant highlighted numerous violent occurrences.

The bench, which included Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, questioned the absence of an independent investigation into these allegations.

The Chief Justice remarked that those responsible for any excesses must face consequences.

Acknowledging the arguments presented by attorneys, the bench asserted the necessity for a fair and independent investigation into claims of police misconduct against NEET protesters.

The court reiterated that any violation of established protocols should be addressed by the law. The Chief Justice mentioned that they are considering a thorough and transparent investigation into all claims.

Additionally, the court noted the need to investigate the assaults on 250 police officers to determine whether the attackers were students or outsiders.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated that students are unlikely to engage in violence against police, suggesting that some outsiders with criminal backgrounds infiltrated the protests and instigated violence.

The hearing is ongoing.

On Monday, the bench remarked that protests do not justify police brutality or the use of force. They affirmed that the right to peaceful assembly is a fundamental guarantee.

The Cockroach Janta Party-led demonstration on July 20 in Delhi resulted in confrontations between protesters and law enforcement, who resorted to using batons and tear gas to disperse crowds attempting to approach Parliament.

Protesters were calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in light of the NEET paper leak controversy.