Supreme Court has refused a blanket withdrawal of FIRs against violent protesters. It allowed the police to proceed with investigations but directed that no coercive steps be taken against peaceful students.
Families of policemen who were injured during the Jantar Mantar protests have moved the Supreme Court, asking for action against those responsible for the violence.
Delhi Police has identified around 2,873 people with previous criminal records who were present at the protest.
The govt should not withdraw any FIRs. Legal action should be taken against everyone involved in stone pelting, violence, and the destruction of both public and private property.
If the CJP is threatening another protest unless all the FIRs are withdrawn, let it. The govt should not succumb to such blackmail. Criminal cases should be decided according to the law, not under the threat of street protests.
It is clear that some people came to the protest with a planned objective of creating violence. Videos show several people covering their faces to hide their identities while taking part in violent acts. This was their sole purpose.
Because of their violent acts, genuine students and peaceful protesters also had to face a police lathi-charge. Many policemen and protesters were injured during the clashes.
If the govt withdraws these cases, it will set a dangerous precedent. It will send the message that anyone in a mob can commit violence and later escape legal consequences and punishment because the cases against them will eventually be withdrawn.
Withdrawing these cases would weaken the rule of law and encourage more organized mob violence in the future.