Delhi Police Await Government Order to Drop Protest Cases; Journalist Assault Cases Excluded

The Delhi Police have stated that they have not yet received any official order from the government to withdraw cases linked to the July 20 protest against paper leaks. According to police sources, if such an order is issued, legal procedures will be followed, and the courts will ultimately decide on the matter.

However, officials clarified that cases filed by journalists alleging assault during the protest will not be withdrawn under any circumstances.

The government had previously assured students protesting at Jantar Mantar that no legal action would be taken against them. A similar assurance was given to activist Sonam Wangchuk, who subsequently ended his hunger strike.

The cases stem from a march to Parliament on July 20 demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, which turned violent at Jantar Mantar.

At least 20 cases were registered in connection with the violence and related incidents. Of these, 14 were linked to violence, one involved flying a drone without permission, and the remaining were filed by journalists alleging assault. Officials confirmed that the cases filed by journalists will not be withdrawn.

For other cases, police sources explained that once the government issues an order, the prosecution will inform the Lieutenant Governor that they do not intend to pursue further action. After obtaining approval, the police will notify the relevant courts that they wish to discontinue prosecution.

The final decision on the withdrawal of cases will rest with the courts, which will issue further orders as deemed appropriate.