Maharashtra government decides to withdraw FIRs against protesters; police continue investigation

Mumbai model Rhiya Ahir, who gained widespread attention after blocking a police vehicle during recent student protests, claimed the officers inside the van treated her with respect. Ahir, a 27-year-old actor and model, recounted her experience to news agency ANI, stating that her primary concern at the time was the safety and dignity of the police personnel inside the van. She emphasized that her actions were driven by a sense of responsibility toward both the protesters and law enforcement. Ahir described feeling anxious after her video footage circulated online, noting that she had not slept for two consecutive nights due to concerns for the students continuing to participate in the demonstrations. Her parents reportedly offered unwavering support throughout the ordeal. She expressed frustration with the government for filing FIRs against student protesters and called upon authorities to reconsider these charges. Ahir urged the government to recognize the students' legitimate grievances and to act as allies rather than adversaries. In response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurances regarding the handling of the NEET paper leak case, Ahir acknowledged the importance of translating promises into tangible outcomes. She referenced the release of the alleged mastermind behind the 2024 leaks on bail, expressing hope that similar justice would be extended to the current situation. Ahir stressed the need for swift implementation of the government's commitments, emphasizing that mere declarations were insufficient. Ahir denied any ulterior motives behind her actions, clarifying that she wore a hoodie and a cap to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. She insisted that her intent was purely to support the cause of the protesters and to ensure that the demonstration remained non-violent. The Maharashtra government has decided to withdraw FIRs against students and youth involved in the protests, although legal procedures such as recording statements and issuing notices remain in progress. This decision followed a meeting between representatives of the All India Students’ Federation (AISF) and senior police officials. Despite the government's commitment to dropping the cases, confusion persists among students and activists as some continue to receive FIR notices through WhatsApp messages. Senior police officials explained that the investigation cannot be halted prematurely, highlighting the necessity of completing legal formalities before considering the withdrawal of FIRs. These processes include submitting charge sheets, conducting interviews, and compiling evidence. An official noted that the cases would be reviewed by a scrutiny committee before any decisions could be made on their withdrawal. AISF Mumbai President Aamir Kazi expressed concern over the continued receipt of FIR notices by students, indicating that the government's promise to drop the cases has not fully materialized. He urged the AISF to submit a formal request to the Mumbai Police Commissioner, asking for an end to the distribution of new notices and the cessation of police visits to protesters' homes. Harsha Disha, a student organization, criticized the government for failing to uphold its commitments, alleging that the distribution of FIR notices was intended to instill fear and discourage further protests. They called for the complete withdrawal of all FIRs and the accountability of police officers suspected of inciting violence. The current government directive allowing for the withdrawal of cases is set to expire on July 31. Authorities indicated that many investigations are ongoing, and charge sheets might not be filed before that date, suggesting an extension of the deadline. Officers emphasized that the faster charge sheets are submitted, the quicker the process of withdrawing FIRs can commence. Despite welcoming the government's decision, the AISF maintains that the fight continues until all legal proceedings against peaceful protesters are resolved. The federation reiterated its call for an immediate halt to police harassment and for the protection of the rights of student demonstrators.