SC asks Centre to preserve RAF ammunition log used in NEET protests
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to preserve the ammunition log of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed at Jantar Mantar during student protests against the NEET paper leak. This order came while hearing a plea seeking a complete ban on metallic pellet guns for crowd control.
Background
A PIL was filed by former Central Information Commissioner Yashovardhan Azad and two victims of pellet injuries during the 'Sansad Chalo' protest on July 20, 2026, demanding a nationwide ban on metallic pellet guns. The Supreme Court is examining the use of pellet guns in law and order situations.
Key facts
Supreme Court asked Centre to preserve ammunition log of RAF deployed at Jantar Mantar during NEET paper leak protests.
The order was passed by a bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana.
The court referred to BPR&D advisory, stating police are empowered to use pellet guns in exceptional situations.
The court asked Delhi government to provide best treatment to those injured by pellets during the protest.
The PIL seeks a nationwide ban on metallic pellet ammunition for dispersing civilian assemblies.
The petition claims pellet guns are incompatible with constitutional standards on use of force.
The plea also seeks exemplary compensation and rehabilitation for injured persons.
The protest was called by Cockroach Janta Party against the NEET paper leak.
The PIL was filed under Article 32 of the Constitution.
Prelims pointers
- Article 32 of the Constitution
- Rapid Action Force (RAF)
- Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D)
- Jantar Mantar, New Delhi
- NEET paper leak protest
- Sansad Chalo protest
- Cockroach Janta Party
- Supreme Court bench: CJI Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi, V Mohana
Mains angles
- GS2: Judiciary – Role of Supreme Court in protecting fundamental rights and use of force by state.
- GS3: Internal Security – Use of pellet guns in crowd control, proportionality of force.
- GS2: Polity – Constitutional standards on use of force, Article 32 PIL jurisdiction.