Delhi Government Backs Down: No Legal Action Against NEET-UG Protesters, Arrests Under Review
The Delhi government has announced that it will not pursue legal action against individuals booked in connection with protests over alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for undergraduates (NEET-UG). The decision, communicated through a statement on Wednesday, also includes a review of all arrests made during the demonstrations.
The protests, which erupted in several parts of the capital earlier this month, were sparked by allegations of paper leaks and unfair practices in the NEET-UG examination. Demonstrators, many of whom were students and parents, called for a fair and transparent investigation into the matter.
In a statement, a Delhi government spokesperson said, 'After careful consideration of the circumstances, the government has decided that no adverse legal action will be taken against those booked in relation to the protests. Furthermore, we have ordered a review of all arrests to ensure that no individual has been detained unjustly.'
The announcement marks a significant shift in the government's stance, which had earlier faced criticism for what many perceived as a heavy-handed response to the demonstrations. Civil liberties groups had expressed concern over the arrest of several protestors, arguing that it stifled the right to peaceful assembly.
While the government has not disclosed the exact number of individuals booked, sources indicate that dozens were taken into custody during the protests. The review process will be overseen by a senior police officer and is expected to conclude within a week.
The NEET-UG exam, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), came under scrutiny after reports emerged that the question paper was leaked in some states. The controversy led to widespread protests by students demanding a re-exam. Following the protests, the central government ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Political reactions to the Delhi government's decision have been mixed. Ruling party leaders welcomed the move, calling it 'compassionate and just,' while opposition parties accused the government of flip-flopping and appeasing protestors. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi criticised the decision, saying it sends a wrong signal to lawbreakers.
The Delhi government has urged citizens to maintain peace and allow the investigative agencies to do their work. As the review of arrests begins, many hope that this decision will de-escalate tensions and restore trust in the examination process.
