A group of retired Delhi Police officers has sought permission to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar on July 31, alleging that police personnel were attacked during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in the national capital earlier this month.
The Delhi Police Federation, representing retired officers, has written to Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumarrequesting approval for a peaceful sit-in from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to express solidarity with police personnel injured during the July 20 Parliament march.
According to the federation, a large number of police and paramilitary personnel were injured while carrying out law-and-order duties. Delhi Police has claimed that more than 100 officers were hurt after alleged anti-social elements infiltrated the protest and attacked security personnel.
The July 20 demonstration turned violent as police used batons and tear gas to disperse crowds during the CJP-led march. Protesters have accused police of using excessive force, while authorities maintain officers were assaulted during the unrest.
In its application, the federation said the demonstration would be conducted peacefully and is intended to recognize the sacrifices made by police personnel in maintaining public order.
The development comes as the Supreme Court of India heard petitions challenging the police response to the protests. During Tuesday’s hearing, the court observed that police require new protocols for handling public demonstrations and called for an independent investigation into allegations of excesses.
The bench emphasized that anyone found responsible for violence or abuse of authority—whether protesters or police—should be held accountable, stating that an investigation would be meaningless without fixing responsibility.
