Rahul Gandhi Seeks Probe Into Student Protest Violence

RAHUL GANDHI
LEADER OF OPPOSITION
LOK SABHA

25th July 2026

Shri Amit Shah
Minister of Home Affairs
Government of India

Dear Shri Amit Shah,

I write to demand accountability for the barbaric assault on students who were peacefully protesting in Delhi on July 20, 2026.

Our students were demanding a fair and accountable education system. Instead of being heard, security forces assaulted them with indiscriminate force, including lethal weapons and tear gas. Hundreds have suffered serious injuries. Women students have been assaulted by policemen, including by deliberately targeting their private parts.

Most shocking has been the use of lethal pellet guns. Reports in the media and social media clearly show people who have suffered grave injuries, including a journalist. I met 19-year old student Sahil Lochab, who is now in severe pain is likely to lose an eye because he was shot with pellet guns.

Security forces deployed in Delhi answer ultimately to you, so I ask:

1. As Home Minister, did you approve the use of lethal force including pellet guns against students? If not, who did?
2. Are the people in plain clothes seen beating students with lathis police personnel or volunteers? Who authorized their deployment?

Peaceful protest is crucial to any democracy. It is the government's responsibility to protect protestors and resolve their grievances through dialogue. Such brutal violence destroys every norm, and has outraged the country. Youth and students, the future of our country, are demanding answers and accountability. Their voice will be heard.

Sincerely,

Rahul Gandhi
10 JANPATH, NEW DELHI - 110011