Delhi to Review NEET Protest Cases, Offers Relief to Most Detainees

New Delhi, July 30, 2026 The Delhi government has announced a review of legal cases linked to the recent protests over the alleged NEET question paper leak, signalling a move to ease tensions following weeks of demonstrations. The decision follows assurances made by the Centre to the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which had led the protests, while also complying with the Supreme Court's directions regarding those detained during the agitation. An official government notice stated that Delhi Police had registered 13 cases related to the protests by the evening of July 29. The government said all arrests and detentions connected to the demonstrations will now be reviewed, and no further legal action will be taken against eligible protesters. The matter will be treated as closed, and the release process will be initiated. However, the relief will not apply to individuals with prior criminal antecedents, in line with the Supreme Court's July 28 order. The arrests followed the July 20 protests, when demonstrators participating in the CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' march from Jantar Mantar clashed with police. Authorities later registered cases and identified protesters through CCTV footage. The government's decision came after criticism over the alleged use of excessive force, including pellet guns, during the demonstrations. While the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remained the CJP's primary demand, the withdrawal of legal action against protesters was another key issue. Two days after suspending the agitation, the party warned that it would return to the streets if the promised withdrawal of police cases was not implemented. The Supreme Court has since directed states not to take coercive action against protesters who have no previous criminal record and ordered their release where applicable. Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha has passed a bill to strengthen the anti-paper leak law, introducing stricter penalties of up to 10 years' imprisonment and fines of up to ₹10 crore. Together, these developments reflect both the government's immediate response to the protests and its broader effort to tighten laws against examination-related malpractice.