The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted major relief to students who were booked during protests over alleged NEET paper leaks, quashing the FIRs registered against them in connection with the demonstrations.
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Suryakant exercised the court’s powers under Article 142 of the Constitution while passing the order. The relief covers cases linked to protests held in Delhi and other states, including Assam, West Bengal and Bihar.
The court took note of the large number of students who had participated in the demonstrations around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi between July 20 and 25.
“From 20 to 25 July, thousands of students participated in the agitation at Jantar Mantar and surrounding areas. The police registered a total of 13 FIRs,” CJI Suryakant said.
No Blanket Relief For Those With Criminal Records
While providing relief to protesting students, the Supreme Court made it clear that the order would not protect people with previous criminal records.
The Delhi Police has been permitted to register fresh FIRs against 2,873 individuals identified as having prior criminal cases or criminal antecedents. The investigation will focus specifically on their alleged involvement in offences connected with the protests.
“We are told that the Delhi Police will register fresh FIRs against 2,873 persons with previous criminal records. No other fresh FIR will be registered,” Chief Justice Suryakant said.
The court also addressed concerns over FIRs that may have been registered in other states or were not brought before the bench during the proceedings.
“If there is any FIR in any state whose details have not been brought to our notice, the state will not oppose a request for its quashing,” the CJI said.
The direction effectively prevents further action against students covered by the court’s order solely because a particular FIR was not placed before the Supreme Court.
Court Takes Up Compensation For Students
The bench also considered the issue of financial assistance for students who allegedly died by suicide in connection with the NEET 2026 examination.
During the hearing, the court was informed that the government would formulate a policy concerning compensation within three months.
The Supreme Court’s order therefore provides broad relief to students involved in the protests while allowing authorities to separately investigate the 2,873 people with previous criminal records.
