The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is conducting an internal review following allegations that pellet guns were used during the July 20 Parliament march organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The incident, which occurred in central Delhi during a large protest, has sparked debate over crowd-control procedures and the use of force during public demonstrations.
According to media reports citing official sources, the preliminary review found that a Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel deployed in the Connaught Place area fired seven rounds from a pellet gun during the operation. The reports claim that five rounds struck protesters, while two hit the ground.
Internal Inquiry Underway
The reported findings are part of an internal assessment being carried out by the CRPF after the protest. Officials are examining duty records, operational logs and the sequence of events to determine whether the force used during the demonstration complied with established operational guidelines.
The inquiry has not yet been concluded, and no final findings have been officially released.
Injuries Reported During the Protest
Several individuals reportedly sustained injuries during the Parliament march. Media reports stated that those receiving medical treatment included a university student, a private-sector employee and a journalist covering the demonstration.
The exact circumstances surrounding the injuries remain part of the ongoing inquiry.
CRPF Awaits Final Assessment
Senior CRPF officials have stated that, as with every major deployment, the force conducts a professional post-event review once the situation has returned to normal. The organisation has indicated that its headquarters will communicate its official position after the assessment is complete.
Authorities have not announced whether any disciplinary or administrative action will follow, pending the outcome of the investigation.
Crowd-Control Practices Also Under Review
Alongside the inquiry into the reported use of pellet guns, the CRPF is also reviewing the crowd-management strategy adopted during the protest. According to media reports, internal observations have raised questions about whether the level of force used was fully consistent with prescribed operating procedures and RAF training protocols.
The review is expected to examine operational decisions made during the protest and identify any lessons for future law-and-order deployments.
Focus on Transparency and Accountability
The incident has renewed discussions about balancing effective law enforcement with the protection of civil liberties during public demonstrations. Security experts note that clear operational guidelines, accountability and transparent investigations are essential for maintaining public confidence whenever force is used in crowd-control situations.
