Supreme Court has clarified that the Delhi government and state governments are free to close or withdraw legal proceedings against students involved in recent protests, including demonstrations held at Delhi's Jantar Mantar and other parts of the country.

A three-judge Bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant explained that its earlier order permitting prosecution of protesters with "criminal antecedents" applied only to individuals accused of serious and grave offences.

Centre Explains Legal Process

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that while the government remained committed to facilitating relief for students, criminal law does not allow the direct withdrawal of an FIR.

He said the appropriate legal options include filing a closure report, seeking withdrawal of prosecution before a competent court, or applying to quash the proceedings through legal channels.

Read more: Man Detained After Disrupting Supreme Court Proceedings and Abusing CJI

Court Examines Police Action

The Supreme Court was hearing petitions alleging excessive police action during student protests over the alleged NEET examination paper leak.

At the same time, families of injured police personnel also approached the court seeking action against protesters accused of assaulting police officers during the demonstrations.

SIT and Pellet Gun Guidelines Under Consideration

The Bench indicated that it is considering constituting a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of police officers to examine allegations of police excesses.

Alternatively, the court may appoint a committee headed by a retired judge to independently review the incidents.

The Chief Justice also said the court intends to frame guidelines governing the circumstances and procedures for the use of pellet guns during crowd-control operations.

Next Hearing Scheduled

The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing in the matter for August 18, when it is expected to consider the proposed investigation mechanism and other pending issues related to the protests.