Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has sent a letter to Home Minister Amit Shah calling for accountability over the forceful response to students protesting in Delhi. He questioned whether approval was given for using lethal measures such as pellet guns against the demonstrators.
In the letter Gandhi noted that peaceful protest forms a core part of democratic life and that authorities must safeguard participants while addressing concerns through discussion. He described the violence as excessive and said it had angered the public, adding that students expect clear responses.
Gandhi referred to the July 20 incident when security forces used force including tear gas against youths seeking reforms in the education system. He reported that many suffered injuries and that some female students were targeted in sensitive areas. The use of pellet guns drew particular concern after reports showed serious harm including to a journalist.
Gandhi mentioned meeting an injured 19-year-old student who may lose an eye from pellets. He asked Shah directly whether the minister had authorised lethal force and who approved deployment of plain-clothes individuals seen striking protesters with batons.
In a social media post Gandhi repeated the questions and stated the country seeks explanations. The protests organised by a youth platform began in June over demands for accountability in examination processes and gained wider support after police action on July 20. Delhi Police has stated its personnel did not employ pellet guns during the events.
