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Rahul Gandhi protests at DCP office after police allegedly refuse FIR for pellet-injured student
India🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive2 days ago

Rahul Gandhi protests at DCP office after police allegedly refuse FIR for pellet-injured student

Rahul Gandhi, a senior opposition leader, protested outside the Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police's office, demanding that a first information report (FIR) be filed regarding a student named Sahil Lochav who was injured by pellet gunfire during a youth protest in New Delhi on July 20. The Congress party alleges that despite Lochav submitting a written complaint on August 14 and follow-up attempts on August 17, the police refused to register an FIR. Hours after Gandhi's protest, the police finally registered an FIR. Gandhi accused the police of using pellet guns against protesters and criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the crackdown. The protest was part of a larger movement against alleged mismanagement of competitive exams, which began in June and led to nationwide unrest. Despite claims by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju that no one was seriously injured, medical records show 10 individuals were treated for pellet injuries.

Delhi Police registered a first information report (FIR) against unknown individuals on Friday, August 21, 2026, following a complaint by 19-year-old Delhi University student Sahil Lochab, who alleged he was injured by pellet gunfire during the July 20 Jantar Mantar protests. The FIR was filed at approximately 7 p.m. at the Parliament Street Police Station after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alongside Lochab, staged a prolonged sit-in protest demanding the registration of the case. The FIR was lodged under Sections 118 and 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deal with voluntarily causing hurt using dangerous weapons and acts that endanger life or personal safety. Lochab, a student of Delhi University’s School of Open Learning, described in his FIR how he was hit by multiple pellets during the protest. He recounted that on July 20, he joined the Jantar Mantar rally against alleged irregularities in competitive exams, including the NEET paper leak and Delhi Police recruitment exam cheating. As the protest escalated, he and other participants fled toward the Palika Bazaar area after a lathicharge and tear gas deployment. While carrying the national flag, he was struck by pellets fired from a rifle by a person in a blue uniform. He suffered injuries to his face, eye, chest, and hands, with blood staining his skin. He was transported to Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC), then to Safdarjung Hospital, and eventually referred to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). In his FIR, Lochab detailed the extent of his injuries. A CT scan revealed over 200 pellets embedded in his body, including his right eye, neck, chest, jaw, and hand. Some pellets were lodged near his heart, making removal impossible. He underwent the first eye surgery on July 22, followed by a second on August 1, but his vision remained compromised. Doctors noted that the chances of restoring sight were less than 1%. Lochab expressed frustration over the delays in receiving medical attention and the lack of acknowledgment from authorities. He also requested the preservation of CCTV and drone footage from the incident, as well as a forensic analysis of the pellets retrieved from his body. Lochab had previously attempted to file an FIR at multiple police stations, including Connaught Place, Sansad Marg, and Mandir Marg, but his complaints were dismissed. He attributed this to systemic negligence and bureaucratic obstruction. “I was then helped by Gandhi… I hoped that if he comes, my case will be heard,” he said. The student emphasized that his injuries have permanently altered his life, affecting both his academic pursuits and career aspirations. He had aimed to join the police force but now faces an uncertain future due to the trauma inflicted upon him. Rahul Gandhi’s intervention played a pivotal role in securing the FIR. After accompanying Lochab to the police station, he led a six-hour sit-in, drawing public and political attention to the case. During the protest, Gandhi accused the Delhi Police of withholding information and acting under directives from higher authorities. He presented medical reports and pellets recovered from Lochab’s body, asserting that the use of pellet guns against peaceful protesters constitutes a serious offense. “Brutality against a peaceful protest is a serious crime,” he said, urging immediate action against those responsible. The police initially denied having used pellet guns during the July 20 protests, but internal records contradicted this claim. A Right to Information (RTI) response revealed that ten individuals had been treated for pellet injuries at government hospitals. Additionally, an entry in the general diary of the Sansad Marg police station indicated that the Rapid Action Force (RAF) had fired anti-riot guns, with some rounds striking protesters. A subsequent CRPF inquiry reportedly confirmed that an RAF personnel fired seven pellet rounds, five of which impacted demonstrators. These findings have sparked scrutiny over the police’s crowd-control tactics and the justification for deploying lethal force against unarmed civilians. The case has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition, particularly from the Congress party. Leaders like Salman Khursid and Mallikarjun Kharge condemned the delayed registration of the FIR, highlighting the need for accountability. Khursid remarked that the FIR documentation now confirms the use of pellet guns, contradicting the police’s earlier denials. Meanwhile, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju claimed that no serious injuries occurred during the police action, stating that “not a single person was harmed.” This statement has further fueled public skepticism regarding official narratives surrounding the incident. With the FIR now registered, the next steps involve a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the pellet injuries. The Supreme Court has already formed a high-powered enquiry committee to examine the police action, including the use of pellet guns. The outcome of this inquiry could have far-reaching implications for the handling of similar incidents in the future. For now, Sahil Lochab continues to seek justice, hoping that the legal process will provide closure to a traumatic chapter in his life.

8 reports

Hindustan Times logoHindustan TimesIndependentProgressiveFactual 88Objective 752 days ago
‘Suffered 200 pellets, shot 5-6 times': What student protester backed by Rahul Gandhi said in FIR

A 19-year-old Delhi University student named Sahil Lochab filed a First Information Report (FIR) alleging that he was injured by pellets fired by police during student protests in July. The FIR was registered after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi joined Lochab in protesting outside the Parliament Street Police Station for over six hours. The FIR was filed under Sections 118 and 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which deal with causing hurt using dangerous weapons and endangering personal safety. In the FIR, Lochab described being shot multiple times with pellets during a lathi charge and stampede-like situation, resulting in 200 pellets lodged in various parts of his body, including his eye. He stated that doctors confirmed the injuries and noted that some pellets could not be removed due to their location near his heart. Lochab also requested the preservation of CCTV and drone footage from the incident.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident within the context of student protests led by a prominent opposition leader, Rahul Gandhi, and highlights the physical harm caused to a student activist. The emphasis on the involvement of a high-profile politician and the detailed account of the injuries suggests a倾向

Why factuality (88): This article provides detailed information about the FIR, including the legal sections involved and a partial quote from Sahil Lochab's FIR. It corroborates the other articles regarding the timeline, Rahul Gandhi's involvement, and the nature of the injuries. The information aligns with the cross-so

Why objectivity (75): While the article remains largely factual, it includes a direct quote from the FIR that suggests a narrative of injustice. The emphasis on the political aspect and the emotional impact on the student may slightly skew the objectivity.

Hindustan Times logoHindustan TimesIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 702 days ago
FIR for pellet injury during July 20 stir filed after Rahul Gandhi protests for over 6 hours

A Delhi University student named Sahil Lochav filed a first information report (FIR) against unidentified individuals after suffering pellet injuries during the July 20 protests. The FIR was filed following a prolonged protest led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who spent over six hours sitting in protest outside a police station with the student. The BJP criticized Gandhi for what they termed 'attention-seeking politics.' Lochav had previously attempted to register an FIR at multiple police stations without success before being aided by Gandhi. During the protest, paramilitary forces were deployed, and police barricades were set up due to large crowds. The FIR was eventually lodged after several hours of negotiations involving police authorities and Gandhi.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident as a struggle for justice and highlights the bureaucratic obstacles faced by the student, aligning with left-leaning narratives that emphasize accountability and transparency. It portrays Rahul Gandhi's actions as a legitimate attempt to secure justice rather than as噱

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports that an FIR was filed against unknown individuals following a complaint by Sahil Lochab, a Delhi University student with pellet injuries. It mentions Rahul Gandhi's involvement and the political backlash from the BJP. However, some details like the exact timeline and s

Why objectivity (70): The article presents the events with a somewhat biased tone, emphasizing Rahul Gandhi's role and the political controversy. It uses emotionally charged language such as 'attention-seeking politics' and highlights the political implications, which may influence the reader's perception.

NDTV logoNDTVParty-alignedCenterFactual 75Objective 652 days ago
FIR Filed In Pellet Gun Case After Rahul Gandhi's Sit-In At Police Station

The police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) in a pellet gun case following a sit-in by Rahul Gandhi at a police station. The FIR was prepared based on the medical report and other documents provided by the victim, though the specific details of the incident remain unclear. The police stated that the report was filed against unknown individuals, indicating that the perpetrators have not yet been identified. This development comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding protests and public demonstrations in India.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information regarding the filing of an FIR without overtly favoring any political group or ideology. It focuses on the procedural aspects of the police investigation rather than taking a stance on the broader political implications of Rahul Gandhi's actions. There is no傾

Why factuality (75): The article reports that an FIR was filed following Rahul Gandhi's sit-in at a police station, citing police statements about collecting medical reports and filing the case against unknown persons. While the information aligns with typical procedural reporting, there is no independent verification o

Why objectivity (65): The tone appears neutral but leans slightly towards presenting the police action as a response to Gandhi's protest, potentially implying a causal link between his actions and the FIR filing. The language suggests a narrative where the police acted based on a complaint, without explicitly acknowledgi

Times of India logoTimes of IndiaIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 652 days ago
Pellet injuries: FIR filed after Rahul Gandhi sits on dharna

Delhi Police registered an FIR after Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, staged a five-hour dharna (sit-in) outside a police station to demand an investigation into pellet injuries sustained by 19-year-old Sahil Lochab during a protest on July 20. Lochab claimed he was injured by metal pellets fired by someone in a blue uniform during a demonstration against alleged NEET exam leaks. Gandhi presented medical reports showing over 200 pellets embedded in Lochab's body, including those near his eye and heart. Lochab had previously submitted a detailed complaint to the police, but no action was taken until Gandhi intervened. The FIR was eventually registered under sections related to causing harm through dangerous means.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of the incident without overtly favoring any side. It includes direct quotes from both Rahul Gandhi and Sahil Lochab, along with the police's denial of the allegations. There is no evident editorializing or biased language that would indicate a clear leaning.

Why factuality (60): This article diverges significantly from the others, focusing on a completely different event involving Sikhs protesting against Congress leaders. It does not mention the pellet injury case or Rahul Gandhi's involvement, making it irrelevant to the main event being assessed.

Why objectivity (65): The article maintains a neutral tone regarding the Sikh protest, but it is unrelated to the main topic. As it doesn't address the pellet injury case, it cannot be evaluated for objectivity in relation to the other articles.

Scroll.in logoScroll.inIndependentProgressiveFactual 60Objective 552 days ago
Rahul Gandhi protests at DCP office after police allegedly refuse FIR for pellet-injured student

Rahul Gandhi, a senior opposition leader, protested outside the Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police's office, demanding that a first information report (FIR) be filed regarding a student named Sahil Lochav who was injured by pellet gunfire during a youth protest in New Delhi on July 20. The Congress party alleges that despite Lochav submitting a written complaint on August 14 and follow-up attempts on August 17, the police refused to register an FIR. Hours after Gandhi's protest, the police finally registered an FIR. Gandhi accused the police of using pellet guns against protesters and criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the crackdown. The protest was part of a larger movement against alleged mismanagement of competitive exams, which began in June and led to nationwide unrest. Despite claims by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju that no one was seriously injured, medical records show 10 individuals were treated for pellet injuries.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident as a politically motivated suppression of dissent, highlighting the opposition leader's actions and criticism of the ruling government. It emphasizes the alleged misuse of force by police and the failure of authorities to address complaints, aligning with left-leaning

Why factuality (60): The article provides details about Rahul Gandhi's protest over the pellet injury case and mentions the refusal of the police to register an FIR. While it aligns with the primary source document's mention of the pellet gun incident, it diverges from the Vande Mataram controversy and does not referenc

Why objectivity (55): The article leans towards supporting Rahul Gandhi's stance and criticizes the police and government officials. This introduces a biased tone, suggesting a preference for the opposition's viewpoint.

The Hindu logoThe HinduIndependentProgressiveFactual 50Objective 402 days ago
After Rahul’s dharna, police register FIR on pellet gun use at Delhi protest

Following a seven-hour dharna (sit-in) led by opposition leader Rahul Gandhi in Delhi, police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the use of pellet guns during a July 20 protest march towards Parliament. The FIR was filed after a 19-year-old protester, Sahil Lochab, who suffered severe eye damage from pellet injuries, claimed police had repeatedly refused to register his complaint. Lochab, a student at the University of Delhi, detailed his injuries in a seven-page complaint, noting over 200 pellets remained in his body with minimal chance of recovering sight. Gandhi, joined by his sister and other Congress leaders, pressured authorities until the FIR was finally registered under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Gandhi criticized the delay, suggesting it highlighted systemic issues in accountability, particularly in rural areas. Senior Congress leader Salman Khursid noted the FIR confirmed the use of pellet guns, contradicting previous police denials.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident as a failure of law enforcement accountability, emphasizing the pressure exerted by opposition leaders to secure justice for a civilian victim. The focus on the delayed FIR registration and criticism of bureaucratic inertia aligns with left-leaning critiques of state-

Why factuality (50): This article is unrelated to the main event discussed in the primary source document. It covers a different topic entirely, the pellet gun incident involving Rahul Gandhi, which makes it irrelevant to the Vande Mataram controversy.

Why objectivity (40): The article is completely off-topic and does not address the Vande Mataram dispute. Its focus on the pellet gun incident shows a clear bias and lack of relevance to the main subject.

India Today logoIndia TodayIndependentProgressiveFactual 50Objective 402 days ago
Cops file FIR on pellet gun victim's complaint after Rahul Gandhi's dharna

Delhi Police registered an FIR against pellet injuries sustained by 19-year-old Sahil Lochab during a July 20 protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), following pressure from opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi staged a sit-in at the Parliament Street Police Station, demanding the registration of the FIR. The FIR was filed under Sections 118 and 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which address causing hurt with dangerous weapons and endangering personal safety. Despite the FIR filing, no specific individuals have been named as accused. Gandhi and other Congress leaders confronted police officials, alleging that Delhi Police had failed to act on the complaint and claimed that pellet guns were used by law enforcement. Support for Gandhi came from several Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Pawan Khera, who criticized the Home Minister Amit Shah and the ruling BJP.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident as a failure of the Delhi Police and criticizes the ruling BJP and Home Minister Amit Shah. It highlights the pressure exerted by Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders, portraying their actions as justified and the authorities as obstructive. The tone leans left by:

Why factuality (50): The article states that Delhi Police registered an FIR based on Sahil Lochab's complaint about pellet injuries. This is not mentioned in the primary source document, which only discusses the investigation into the Vande Mataram incident. Additionally, the article introduces new details about the FIR

Why objectivity (40): The article appears to take a pro-Rahul Gandhi stance by highlighting his sit-in and pressuring the police to register an FIR. It lacks balance by not addressing the BJP's claims or presenting the situation objectively. The tone suggests sympathy towards Rahul Gandhi rather than neutrality.

The Wire logoThe WireIndependentCenterFactual 30Objective 402 days ago
Hours After Rahul Gandhis Dharna Outside Police Station, FIR Registered Over Use of Pellet Guns on July 20

Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Indian politician and leader of the Indian National Congress, held a dharna (sit-in protest) outside a police station hours after an FIR was registered regarding the use of pellet guns on July 20. The incident involving pellet guns has drawn attention, particularly due to Gandhi's involvement and the timing of the protest. The FIR suggests that there may have been an investigation into the use of these weapons, which are often associated with law enforcement actions during protests or demonstrations. Gandhi’s protest indicates his concern over the matter and possibly highlights broader issues related to policing practices in India.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on a political event involving a high-profile figure and law enforcement action, but does not exhibit clear bias through loaded language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. It presents the fact that an FIR was filed and that Rahul Gandhi protested, without taking a clear

Why factuality (30): This article is unrelated to the Vande Mataram controversy and discusses a different incident involving Rahul Gandhi and pellet guns. It lacks any connection to the primary source document and thus cannot be assessed for factual accuracy in relation to the main event.

Why objectivity (40): The article is irrelevant to the main topic and does not attempt to present a balanced view. It focuses solely on a different issue, making it unsuitable for comparison with the other articles.

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