Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 16: The Supreme Court has directed the High-Powered Enquiry Committee (HPEC) probing allegations of violence and excessive use of force during student protests at Jantar Mantar to examine several key aspects of the incidents, including the alleged use of pellet guns and violence against female protesters.

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant declined a plea seeking reconstitution of the five-member HPEC, saying it would be premature to question the committee's functioning before its inquiry had progressed. The court said there could not be a presumption of bias against a committee constituted by the Supreme Court.

The court directed the panel to focus on allegations concerning the use of pellet guns, targeted violence and harassment of female protesters, injuries involving police personnel and damage to property. The inquiry will consider allegations of violence from both sides.

The HPEC has also been asked to maintain confidentiality regarding vulnerable witnesses and protect their identities and statements. The panel is expected to facilitate the submission of documents and evidence by people connected with the matter through an appropriate mechanism.

The Supreme Court has appointed senior advocate Dr Monika Gusain and C Solomon, Advocate-on-Record, as amici curiae to assist the court and facilitate the proceedings. The HPEC has also been directed to appoint a Member Secretary and submit its first report at the earliest.

The court also considered the case of a 14-year-old girl who participated in the protests and was allegedly facing threats along with her family. The Delhi Police has been directed to assess the threat and provide necessary protection, besides investigating the allegations of threats and harassment. A status report is to be filed before the next hearing.

The matter is scheduled to be heard again on October 9.