Supreme Court Forms Committee to Probe Police Actions at Delhi Student Protests

In July 2026, Delhi saw large-scale student protests following allegations of a paper leak in the NEET-UG medical entrance exam. Many students and activists took to the streets, demanding accountability and fair treatment. During these protests, several students alleged that police used excessive force, especially during a march on July 20. The situation became more heated when reports emerged of violence against female protesters and claims of harassment.

Public outcry grew as videos and eyewitness accounts spread on social media, prompting calls for an independent investigation. The issue quickly escalated beyond education, raising broader concerns about police conduct during public demonstrations.

On August 18, 2026, the Supreme Court of India announced its intention to form a high-powered committee to investigate claims of police excesses during the recent student demonstrations in Delhi, according to Amar Ujala and Indian Express.

The court specified that the committee would include a former Supreme Court judge and a former CBI chief. Media outlets reported that the investigation would review video footage from the July 20 protest and other evidence to determine the extent of police misconduct and violence, including incidents involving female protesters.

On the same day, the Supreme Court also signaled its readiness to quash FIRs filed against students involved in the NEET protests. According to The Hindu and Business Line, this was done under Article 142 of the Constitution, allowing the court to take extraordinary measures in the interest of justice. The Education Minister resigned following the controversy, adding political weight to the situation.

By August 20, several outlets including India Today and Mint confirmed that the committee would be led by former Supreme Court Justice R Subhash Reddy. The panel was given a broad mandate to investigate both police actions and any violence against security personnel during the protests. The committee is expected to examine allegations of excessive force, harassment of female protestors, and property damage.

The Supreme Court's five-member committee, headed by Justice R Subhash Reddy, is now formally established and has begun its inquiry into the events surrounding the student protests. The panel is tasked with reviewing evidence, including video footage, and collecting testimonies from all sides, including protestors, police, and bystanders.

At the same time, the Supreme Court has moved to dismiss criminal charges against students who participated in the NEET-related protests. This has brought some relief to the student community, though questions about police accountability remain.

The committee is expected to deliver its findings in the coming weeks. Key questions include whether police used excessive force, how female protesters were treated, and whether new guidelines for handling protests will be recommended. The public and legal observers are watching closely to see if the inquiry leads to policy changes or further legal action against police officials.