The court invoked Article 142 to close FIRs linked to the July 20–25 agitation, while excluding 2,837 individuals over alleged serious criminal antecedents
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered the closure of FIRs registered across India in connection with the July 20–25 protests led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) over alleged irregularities and repeated paper leaks in national examinations.
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, invoked Article 142 to direct that the FIRs be treated as closed and not investigated further. The order applies across states and Union territories, and no fresh FIRs can be filed over the same incidents.
The court said the relief was intended to prevent criminal proceedings from adversely affecting students and young protesters, observing that participation in a protest should not automatically constitute a criminal offence.
However, 2,837 individuals were excluded from the blanket relief after Delhi Police cited alleged serious criminal antecedents. Their cases will be examined separately. Following the order, the CJP withdrew its proposed September 5 Delhi march, citing government assurances and judicial backing.
The Centre also agreed to formulate a nationwide compensation policy for families of students who died by suicide in connection with the 2026 NEET controversy. The court directed the policy to be framed in consultation with states.
Also Read: AASU Leader Detained During Sonapur Toll Protest Over NH-27 Road Conditions
