India Supreme Court rejects plea for free hand against protesters

India's Supreme Court rejected a plea seeking a free hand for Delhi Police in dealing with protesters. It emphasized the need to consider young participants' futures and their families.

A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant observed that many protesters were young students. He said the court needed to consider their parents and the lives ahead of them, avoiding unnecessary involvement in lengthy legal proceedings.

The court also clarified the scope of protection provided by its earlier orders. That protection did not cover people alleged to be hardened criminals or those accused of serious offences. The bench therefore distinguished the position of young protesters from cases involving serious allegations.

Times of India, Moneycontrol and Mint reported the decision on October 9. The dismissal was accompanied by a clarification of earlier safeguards, rather than approval of the requested free hand for police.