After ‘testing ground’ in Kashmir, pellet guns used on student protesters in India's capital

Indian forces used pellet guns against student protesters in New Delhi on 20 July, according to medical reports from a city hospital, marking the first known instance of such tactics being employed in the capital. The attack occurred during a gathering at Jantar Mantar, a central location in Delhi, where demonstrators had been demanding educational reforms and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The use of pellet guns, pump-action devices capable of firing hundreds of metal projectiles, has drawn condemnation from human rights organizations, which accuse authorities of employing excessive force. The protests, initially sparked by a satirical social media campaign known as the "Cockroach Janta Party" (CJP), began in June in response to remarks by Chief Justice Surya Kant, who referred to unemployed youth as "cockroaches." This led to widespread outrage and calls for systemic change. Protesters demanded the resignation of Pradhan, citing corruption and disparities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), an examination that has been linked to numerous student suicides. The movement gained momentum when activist Sonam Wangchuck embarked on a 26-day hunger strike in Jantar Mantar, drawing thousands into the streets and culminating in a large-scale march toward Parliament. On 20 July, as tensions escalated, Delhi police and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) reportedly used pellet guns and other methods, including electric shock batons, tear gas, and internet blackouts, to suppress the demonstration. Medical records from Safdarjung Hospital indicate that a journalist suffered injuries consistent with pellet strikes, having been treated by multiple departments within the hospital. These findings have fueled calls for independent investigations into the use of force by law enforcement. Delhi police have denied allegations of pellet gun use, describing them as "completely false and misleading," while the RAF acknowledged an "excessive use of force" following an internal review. To date, at least three individuals have been identified as victims of pellet gun attacks, though official statements remain inconsistent. The tactic, previously associated with operations in Indian-administered Kashmir, has been condemned by international bodies, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, which labeled pellet guns among the most hazardous tools used against protesters. The protests have since evolved beyond their original focus on educational reform, with participants increasingly demanding greater government accountability and even the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In response, authorities have taken measures to curb dissent, including detaining activists and raiding homes. For example, Muslim volunteer Mohd Junaid faced house raids and had family members arrested by Uttar Pradesh state police. Meanwhile, Hindu nationalist groups have issued public threats against protesters, warning of potential violence. The situation underscores the deepening political unrest in India, with demonstrations reflecting growing frustration over governance and social inequality. As the protests continue, the role of law enforcement and the broader implications of the tactics used will likely remain under scrutiny. The use of pellet guns in Delhi represents a shift in how authorities manage civil disobedience, raising concerns about the safety of participants and the legitimacy of the state's response. The outcome of this conflict will depend on how these issues are addressed moving forward.