New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking accountability for the police action taken against students during a protest in the national capital earlier this month. In his letter, Gandhi alleged that peaceful demonstrators were subjected to excessive force and urged the government to explain the circumstances surrounding the operation.
The Congress leader said the students had gathered to press for a transparent and accountable education system but were allegedly met with force instead of dialogue. He claimed that a large number of protesters sustained injuries during the police action, including women and members of the media.
Raising concerns over the methods reportedly used by security personnel, Gandhi referred to allegations that pellet guns were deployed during the protest. He specifically mentioned a 19-year-old student, Sahil Lochab, who, according to him, suffered serious injuries and may lose vision in one eye after being hit during the clashes.
In the letter, Gandhi questioned whether the use of such force had been officially authorised. He asked the Home Minister to clarify who approved the deployment of pellet guns if they were indeed used and whether individuals seen in plain clothes wielding batons were police personnel or acting under official instructions.
The Congress MP argued that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right and maintained that governments are expected to protect demonstrators while addressing their concerns through meaningful dialogue. He said any use of disproportionate force against students raises serious questions about the functioning of democratic institutions.
Describing the incident as deeply disturbing, Gandhi stated that the country’s youth, who represent India’s future, deserve transparency and justice. He called for responsibility to be fixed for those involved in the alleged excesses and urged the government to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
The letter comes amid continued political debate over the handling of student demonstrations and the broader concerns surrounding education-related issues, with the Opposition demanding greater accountability from the Centre.
