Delhi Police sources confirmed Sunday that 15 first information reports (FIRs) have been registered across various police stations in the New Delhi district in connection with the July 20 violence and related incidents at the ongoing NEET paper leak protests. The force stated it would proceed with the withdrawal of these cases only after receiving formal communication and guidelines from the competent authority.
Government Assurance and Police Response
Union Minister JP Nadda announced on Saturday at a joint press conference with Cockroach Janata Party spokespersons Saurav Das and Abhiseh Ranka that the government had agreed to withdraw FIRs registered against protesters. Nadda assured that a written commitment on the agreed demands would be provided by Tuesday. The police source emphasized, "We will act according to the guidelines and official communication after receiving from the competent authority."
The July 20 protests, which saw thousands gather near Jantar Mantar, turned violent when supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party clashed with security personnel. Police used batons to disperse the crowd, leading to injuries on both sides. The protests were sparked by allegations of a widespread leak in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for medical admissions.
Details of FIRs and Casualties
According to police sources, the 15 FIRs cover charges of unlawful assembly, rioting, assault on public servants, and damage to public property. More than 200 police personnel and 70 protesters sustained injuries during the clashes. Several government vehicles and other public property were damaged. Using facial recognition systems (FRS), police have identified over 2,500 individuals with criminal backgrounds who were present at the protest site, according to the source.
Ongoing Conspiracy Investigation
The source clarified that the planned withdrawal of FIRs would not hinder the ongoing investigation into the larger conspiracy behind the violence. "The conspiracy probe will continue irrespective of the proposed withdrawal of the FIRs, and all evidence collected during the investigation will be examined as part of the ongoing inquiry," the source said. Police are analyzing CCTV footage, digital evidence, mobile phone records, and witness statements to reconstruct the sequence of events. Investigators aim to identify those suspected of planning, instigating, or actively participating in the violence.
While the government's assurance signals a de-escalation in the standoff with student protesters, law enforcement remains focused on uncovering the organizational structure and financial backing behind the coordinated clashes. The NEET paper leak controversy has triggered nationwide protests, with students demanding a re-examination and accountability from testing authorities. The Delhi Police's dual approach—withdrawing cases against ordinary protesters while intensifying the conspiracy probe—reflects a strategy to isolate what officials describe as a criminal element within the demonstration.
