Politics · India Bureau
Supreme Court upholds decision to quash NEET-UG protest FIRs
The Chief Justice of India rejected a plea to review the apex court's order quashing first information reports against students who protested the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for undergraduate programmes. The CJI cited concern for the students' futures as the rationale behind the decision.
LSN India ·
The Supreme Court has declined to reconsider its earlier order directing the quashing of FIRs filed against NEET-UG protestors, reaffirming the bench's commitment to the decision. Chief Justice of India stated that the original order was motivated by consideration for the welfare and future prospects of the students involved in the demonstrations.
The apex court's stance reflects growing judicial concern over the impact of criminal proceedings on students during their formative years. By quashing the FIRs, the court addressed grievances raised by protestors who challenged aspects of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for undergraduate medical admissions.
The rejection of the review plea signals the Supreme Court's firm position on protecting students from potential career impediments resulting from protest-related charges. The bench maintained that the original order struck an appropriate balance between acknowledging legitimate concerns raised by students and safeguarding their long-term interests.
The decision underscores the judiciary's evolving approach to student activism, recognizing peaceful protest as a democratic right while ensuring young citizens are not burdened with criminal records that could derail their academic and professional trajectories.