New Delhi: The agitation over the alleged NEET paper leak entered another crucial day as the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) continued its sit-in at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. While protesters remain firm on their demand for the resignation of the Union Education Minister, the Centre and CJP are set to hold a third round of negotiations this afternoon in an attempt to break the deadlock.
Supreme Court to Hear Pleas on Alleged Police Excesses
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear two Public Interest Litigations (PILs) on July 27, alleging police excesses against students protesting over the NEET paper leak and irregularities in other competitive examinations. A bench headed by the Chief Justice of India, along with Justices Surya Kant, Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, accepted the request for an early hearing after the matter was mentioned before the court.
Protest Inspires Surge in Demand for Constitution and Bhagat Singh Books
Despite heavy security and restrictions affecting businesses around Jantar Mantar, an interesting trend has emerged among the protesters. Book sellers report a sharp rise in demand for books on the Indian Constitution, social justice, Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s Annihilation of Caste, and Shaheed Bhagat Singh.
Nek Ram, who has sold books on Sansad Marg for nearly four decades, said overall business has declined because of the restrictions, but students continue to purchase books and newspapers in large numbers. Another bookseller, Ujala, said literature on constitutional values and Bhagat Singh has become the top choice among the youth participating in the protest.
Liquor Shops to Shut Early
As a precautionary measure, liquor shops across Delhi will close at 8 PM today and tomorrow, two hours earlier than their usual closing time. Authorities have taken the decision in view of the ongoing protests and heightened security arrangements.
Police Say Situation Under Control
Delhi Police maintained that the situation at Jantar Mantar remains peaceful and under control. According to Special Commissioner of Police Ajay Chaudhary, the number of protesters has reduced compared to previous days, and ongoing talks between the government and CJP are showing encouraging signs.
He said around 8,000 protesters were present at the site on Friday evening, with participants singing patriotic songs, interacting peacefully, and cooperating with security personnel. Police reiterated that maintaining law and order remains their highest priority.
Delhi High Court Declines to Interfere
The Delhi High Court on Friday refused to entertain two PILs related to the CJP protest and the Parliament march held on July 20. One petition sought an NIA probe into the agitation, while another demanded criminal cases against the protesters. The court observed that decisions regarding investigations and legal proceedings fall within the jurisdiction of the competent authorities and law enforcement agencies.
Delhi Police Cancels Leave Amid Security Alert
To strengthen security arrangements, Delhi Police has cancelled all routine leave for its personnel with immediate effect. According to orders issued by Police Headquarters, casual leave and earned leave will remain suspended until further notice. Leave will be granted only in exceptional emergencies after approval from the competent authority. Police personnel have also been barred from attending training programmes without prior permission from the Police Commissioner.
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