India's Supreme Court Supports Peaceful Protest Rights Amid NEET-UG Unrest

Jul 27, 2026

62 min

Jul 27, 2026 06:30

NEET-UG protests: India’s top court backs peaceful protest rights, weighs police protocol

## Supreme Court Upholds Right to Peaceful Protest

India's Supreme Court has reaffirmed the constitutional right to peaceful protest, emphasizing that this right cannot be denied. The court is considering establishing a nationwide protocol to regulate peaceful demonstrations, ensuring that authorities can manage protests without infringing on citizens' rights.

## Addressing Police Conduct

The court's observations came during hearings on petitions alleging police misconduct, including the use of force against students protesting the alleged NEET-UG exam paper leak. Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, highlighted the need for a framework that balances protest rights with measures to address anti-social behavior.

## Call for Uniform Guidelines

The bench suggested that uniform guidelines could define the responsibilities of both protesters and law enforcement, promoting self-discipline and ensuring that protests remain peaceful. The court stressed that agitation does not justify excessive police action.

## Concerns Over Attacks on Police

While addressing the issue, the court also acknowledged reports of attacks on police personnel during protests. Justice Joymalya Bagchi noted the importance of protecting law enforcement officers and called for a response from the state on why adequate safeguards were not in place.

The court has scheduled further hearings to continue examining these issues.

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