TNI Bureau: The Supreme Court called for an independent investigation into the police excesses during the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20, saying those responsible should be held accountable.

Hearing the matter, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said any excesses committed during the protests must be thoroughly investigated and responsibility fixed. He observed that an inquiry would serve little purpose if no action is taken against those found guilty.

The court was hearing allegations of police brutality against student protesters, including claims that electric batons were used during the crackdown.

The Supreme Court had earlier expressed concern over the use of force during the protest, stating that a protest cannot automatically justify a lathi-charge. At the same time, the court said violence during demonstrations is also unacceptable. The bench stressed that both protesters and police must act with restraint and maintain discipline in a democracy.

During the hearing, concerns were also raised about the reported use of an AK-47 rifle against student protesters in Bihar. The Chief Justice said the court would examine protest and crowd-control guidelines at the national level.

The court’s observations come amid continuing scrutiny over the handling of student protests and the use of force by law enforcement agencies.