Special Cell, Crime Branch to Probe Clashes During Parliament March: Delhi Police
The Delhi Police has transferred the investigation into 10 First Information Reports (FIRs) related to clashes and violence during a protest march towards Parliament on Monday to its Special Cell and Crime Branch. The move aims to determine whether anti-social elements or outsiders infiltrated the demonstration, which was initially intended to be peaceful, according to police officers.
The protest was organised by a group demanding action on the alleged NEET paper leak and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Thousands gathered at Jantar Mantar before marching towards Parliament, where scuffles broke out with law enforcement. Police have registered multiple FIRs for rioting, vandalism, and assault on public servants.
Officers stated that the transfer of cases to specialised units will allow for a deeper probe into the chain of events. The Special Cell, which handles cases related to national security, and the Crime Branch, which investigates serious crimes, will examine evidence including video footage and witness statements.
Police are also scrutinising the role of social media in fuelling the unrest. According to officers, around 480 social media handles based in Pakistan have been identified for allegedly spreading misinformation and false rumours linked to the protests. These accounts are suspected of amplifying tensions and inciting violence. However, the claims have not been independently verified.
The development comes amid heightened political tensions. Opposition parties have criticised the government's handling of the NEET issue and the police response to the protest. The government has defended the actions, stating that maintaining public order is paramount.
The investigation will also look into the funding and organisation of the march. Police are expected to question key organisers and participants to establish if there was any premeditated plan to disrupt peace.
