CJP protest: Supreme Court orders immediate release of detained students with no prior criminal cases

July 28, 2026

New Delhi: In a significant relief for students detained during the recent Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led protests, the Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the immediate release of all detained students who have no prior criminal records. The court also issued a series of interim directions aimed at protecting the rights of protesters while seeking accountability for the alleged police action during the demonstrations.

Hearing petitions related to the police crackdown on students protesting over the alleged NEET examination irregularities, the apex court observed that peaceful protest is an essential part of a democratic society and that action against protesters must remain within the framework of law. The court clarified that its protection would apply only to those without previous criminal records.

Court Directs Immediate Relief for Eligible Students

The Supreme Court ordered police authorities across states to immediately release students detained in connection with the CJP protests if they do not have any prior criminal background. It also restrained authorities from taking coercive action against such protesters until further orders. The bench stressed that law enforcement agencies must act fairly while maintaining public order.

Digital Data of Protesters Must Be Protected

The court further directed all police agencies to preserve and protect digital data collected during the protests. It said that photographs, videos, mobile phone data and other electronic records of protesters should not be publicly disclosed or misused while the matter remains under judicial consideration.

Independent Probe Into Police Excess Under Consideration

During the hearing, the Supreme Court also indicated that allegations of excessive police force during the protests require careful examination. The bench said it would consider the need for an independent investigation into the claims of police misconduct and directed authorities to preserve all digital evidence related to the incidents. The matter is expected to come up for further hearing after responses from the concerned authorities.

The CJP-led nationwide protests were launched over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination process and demands for reforms in the examination system. The demonstrations witnessed clashes between protesters and security personnel in several states, leading to the detention of a large number of students.