Delhi Police defend Jantar Mantar action, term student protest 'illegal'

The Delhi Police have formally rejected allegations of excessive force used during a student protest at Jantar Mantar on Friday, describing the gathering as an 'illegal assembly' that lacked the required permissions. In an official statement, the police said that all actions taken were in accordance with established legal procedures and aimed at maintaining public order.

According to police officials, the protest, which drew a large number of students from various universities, was not sanctioned by the authorities. They claim that despite repeated requests to disperse and follow the law, the demonstrators refused to comply, forcing law enforcement to intervene. 'The gathering was illegal from the outset. We gave ample warning to the protesters, but they chose to violate the law,' a senior police officer said on condition of anonymity.

However, student organisations have countered the police version, alleging that the response was disproportionate and that several peaceful demonstrators were injured. A student leader, who was present at the spot, claimed that the police lathi-charge came without warning. 'We were holding a peaceful sit-in, and suddenly the police charged at us with batons. Our only demand was to be heard,' he said, requesting anonymity as he is not authorised to speak to the media.

The incident has rekindled the debate over the use of public spaces for protests in the national capital. Jantar Mantar, a historic observatory, has long been a venue for various demonstrations and agitations. Yet, in recent years, the courts have imposed stringent guidelines to regulate such gatherings. The Delhi High Court, in several rulings, has stated that protests cannot obstruct public movement or cause inconvenience to citizens. As a result, protestors are required to obtain prior permission from the police, specifying the number of participants and the duration of the protest.

Legal experts point out that while the right to protest is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a) and (b) of the Constitution, it is not absolute. 'The government can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order. But any action by the police must also be proportionate and in line with the law,' said constitutional lawyer Pranav Sharma. He added that the police have a duty to protect peaceful protesters even as they enforce the law.

The student groups, meanwhile, have announced plans to approach the Delhi High Court, seeking an independent inquiry into the events. They argue that the police have a history of using force to quell dissent and that the current incident is yet another example. 'We will not be silenced. We will fight for our right to protest,' the student leader said.

Observers note that the clash reflects a broader tension between the state's obligation to ensure public order and the right of citizens to voice dissent. The police, for their part, maintain that they acted to prevent a larger public nuisance. 'We are not against peaceful protest, but we cannot allow unauthorised gatherings to turn into chaos. We have a duty to safeguard the safety of all citizens, including the protesters themselves,' a police spokesperson said.

As the matter heads to court, the immediate concern is to provide medical attention to those injured and to ensure a dialogue between the students and the administration. Several civil society groups have called for a transparent investigation, asking the police to release videos of the incident to verify the sequence of events. The Delhi Police have said they are open to scrutiny and will cooperate fully with any inquiry.

The episode serves as a reminder that the right to protest comes with responsibilities, and that the exercise of state power must always be measured and lawful. For now, the students have vowed to continue their agitation through legal means, while the police remain adamant that they violated no rules. The coming days will determine whether this latest confrontation leads to constructive engagement or further escalation.