Rahul Gandhi Criticises Centre over July 20 Protest Crackdown; Calls for Inquiry
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the central government, condemning the police action against protesters during the July 20 demonstration. In a statement, Gandhi described the crackdown as a 'grave assault on democratic rights' and demanded a thorough judicial inquiry into the incident.
On July 20, thousands of opposition supporters gathered in New Delhi to protest against the government's policies, including inflation and unemployment. The protest, organized by several opposition parties, turned violent when some demonstrators attempted to breach barricades near Parliament House. Police used water cannons and batons to disperse the crowd, leading to injuries on both sides.
Gandhi alleged that the government used 'excessive force' against peaceful protestors and accused the administration of 'suppressing dissent'. He said, 'The manner in which the protest was handled reflects the authoritarian tendencies of the Modi government. This is not democracy; this is dictatorship.'
The Union Home Ministry, however, defended the police action, stating that it was necessary to maintain public order and prevent damage to property. In a press release, the ministry said, 'The protest was not peaceful, and the police acted within the law to prevent escalation. We regret any injuries, but the violence was initiated by the protestors.'
Several opposition leaders, including those from the Congress, Trinamool Congress, and Aam Aadmi Party, have condemned the crackdown and called for an independent investigation. Meanwhile, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party accused the opposition of 'deliberately provoking violence' for political mileage.
Legal experts have expressed concern over the use of force, with some calling for a review of crowd-control protocols. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident and sought a report from the Delhi police within two weeks.
The July 20 protest marks the latest flashpoint between the central government and opposition parties, who have accused the Modi administration of eroding democratic institutions. With elections due next year, the political atmosphere is expected to remain charged.
