Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding accountability for the police action during the July 20 student protest in Delhi.
Describing the incident as a “barbaric assault,” Gandhi alleged that excessive force was used against peaceful demonstrators and called for a transparent investigation.
The letter comes days after the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, following weeks of nationwide protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations.
Rahul Gandhi Raises Questions Over Police Action
In his letter, Gandhi alleged that security personnel used force, including tear gas and pellet guns, against students participating in the “Sansad Chalo” march organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and supported by activist Sonam Wangchuk.
He held the Union Home Ministry responsible for the handling of the protest and sought clarity on whether the use of pellet guns had been authorised.
“We hold Amit Shah directly responsible for the violence that has taken place against our students,” Gandhi said while addressing the media.
Seeks Answers on Pellet Gun Use
The Congress leader asked two key questions in his letter:
- Whether the Home Minister approved the use of pellet guns and other force-control measures against students.
- Who authorised individuals in plain clothes, allegedly seen using batons during the protest.
Gandhi also claimed that several students sustained injuries during the police action and referred to the case of a 19-year-old protester who reportedly suffered serious eye injuries.
Calls for Protection of Democratic Rights
Emphasising the importance of peaceful protest in a democracy, Gandhi said governments should address public grievances through dialogue rather than force.
He alleged that the police action violated democratic norms and urged the Centre to ensure accountability for those responsible. Gandhi also reiterated his demand for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to apologise to students over the handling of the protests.
Issue Likely to Be Raised in Parliament
The Congress leader said the matter would be raised prominently during the upcoming Parliament session. Opposition parties are expected to seek a discussion on crowd-control measures used during the July 20 protest and demand an independent review of the incident.
The controversy is likely to remain a key political issue as Parliament prepares to reconvene.
