Justice Delayed, But Not Forgotten

The Supreme Court’s decision to form a high-powered committee to investigate police excesses against student protesters in Delhi is a welcome step towards accountability and justice. It’s a move that has been long overdue, raising more questions than answers about the systemic failures that led to this point.

For months, Delhi Police have brutally suppressed peaceful protests, with allegations of police brutality, arbitrary arrests, and targeting female protesters. The July 20 Parliament march was particularly egregious, with reports of baton charges, tear gas, and alleged use of lathis against unarmed students. Authorities’ response has been woefully inadequate, with FIRs still pending against many protesters.

The Supreme Court’s decision to direct authorities to hand over video footage and CCTV recordings for examination is a crucial step towards uncovering the truth. This move highlights that individual cases are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of police behavior tolerated by those in power.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta’s involvement, appearing for the Centre, suggests the government is finally taking notice of public outcry. However, it’s unclear what this means for protesters – will they be quashed without an apology or will justice be served? The Supreme Court’s statement that students have a “right to protest under Article 19” is a powerful reminder of their fundamental rights.

This issue goes beyond student protests; it involves systemic failures allowing police brutality to flourish. It highlights the lack of transparency and accountability in institutions, which embolden officers to act with impunity. The erosion of trust between citizens and law enforcement has been a long-term consequence of such incidents.

As we wait for the high-powered committee to begin its work, past instances where similar promises were made but fell short are worth recalling. The Justice Verma Committee on sexual violence, set up in 2012 after the Nirbhaya case, is a stark example – despite its recommendations, little has changed regarding police accountability or victim support.

This decision means we must remain vigilant, demanding transparency and accountability from institutions. We must continue to speak out against police brutality and systemic failures, even when challenging. And we must hold our leaders accountable for their actions or lack thereof.

The Supreme Court’s decision is a step towards justice but only the beginning. As we move forward, let us remember Justice Surya Kant’s words: “It is the life of students, which is at stake.” This issue is not just about students; it’s about our collective future and the kind of society we want to build.

The high-powered committee may be a welcome development, but we must not lose sight of the bigger picture. We need systemic reforms, not temporary fixes. We need accountability, transparency, and justice – for all.