The Rapid Action Force (RAF) has begun a formal investigation into allegations that its personnel used pellet guns and excessive force against students protesting the NEET paper leak in Delhi earlier this week. According to senior police officials, the probe was ordered after multiple videos surfaced online showing protesters with injuries consistent with pellet impact.
Background of the Protests
The demonstrations erupted on July 22, 2026, when thousands of medical aspirants gathered at India Gate demanding a re-examination following the leak of the NEET-UG paper. The protest turned violent after a section of the crowd attempted to breach barricades, prompting the deployment of the RAF. Witnesses claim that security forces used unnecessary force, including firing pellet guns, to disperse the crowd.
“We have received at least 15 complaints from students and parents alleging excessive force. A team of three officers has been constituted to examine the evidence and submit a report within seven days,” said a senior Delhi Police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Pellet Gun Controversy
Pellet guns, which fire non-lethal but painful projectiles, have been a subject of controversy in India since their use in Kashmir. The current allegations have reignited the debate over the weapon's appropriateness in crowd control. “Pellet guns should never be used on unarmed students. We demand a complete ban,” said Dr. Sujata Rao, a human rights activist who visited the injured in hospital.
Medical records from Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital show that 23 protesters were treated for injuries, with 8 specifically reporting pellet wounds. The hospital confirmed that none of the injuries were life-threatening.
Government Response
The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken note of the incident and urged the Delhi Police to ensure that crowd control measures remain proportionate. “The use of force must be the last resort and always proportionate to the threat,” a ministry spokesperson said in a statement. The RAF has been asked to cooperate fully with the enquiry.
Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced that a fresh NEET-UG exam would be conducted on August 10, 2026, for students affected by the leak. “We are committed to ensuring fairness and transparency,” an NTA official said.
Impact on Student Community
The incident has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with hashtags like #StopPelletGunOnStudents trending. Student unions across the country have called for a peaceful march to Delhi on July 28 to demand justice. “We will not stop until those responsible are held accountable,” said Rohan Singh, a student leader from JNU.
As the investigation proceeds, the RAF has temporarily suspended the use of pellet guns during protests in Delhi pending the inquiry’s findings.
