The Supreme Court has directed authorities to withdraw FIRs and close criminal cases against students and protesters involved in NEET demonstrations, providing major relief while reaffirming the right to peaceful protest.
New Delhi: In a significant relief for students and activists, the Supreme Court on Tuesday directed authorities across states to withdraw FIRs and close criminal cases registered against individuals who participated in protests related to the NEET examination controversy.
The apex court observed that peaceful demonstrations are a part of democratic expression and stressed that students should not face long-term legal consequences for participating in non-violent protests. The bench instructed state governments and police authorities to ensure that pending FIRs and related criminal proceedings against eligible protesters are withdrawn without unnecessary delay.
The order comes after multiple petitions highlighted that several students, parents, and activists continued to face legal action despite the protests being largely peaceful. The court clarified that the relief would apply to cases where there was no involvement in serious criminal offences such as violence, arson, or damage to public property.
Legal experts believe the ruling reinforces constitutional protections for peaceful assembly while balancing the need to maintain public order. Student organizations welcomed the decision, calling it a major victory for thousands of aspirants who had been demanding justice over the handling of the NEET examination.
The judgment is expected to provide relief to many students whose academic and professional futures were affected due to pending criminal cases arising from the nationwide protests.
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