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NEW DELHI, Aug 24: Indian security forces used pellet-firing shotguns, grenades, batons and electric shock devices against Gen Z protesters during demonstrations in New Delhi last month, according to an investigation by Amnesty International.
The international human rights organisation said its Evidence Lab verified video and photographic evidence, along with witness accounts, indicating that security forces used excessive force against demonstrators.
Thousands of young protesters took to the streets of the Indian capital on July 20, demanding the resignation of then-Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination paper leaks and other irregularities.
More than 100 students were reportedly injured during the police crackdown, with hospital records documenting several pellet-gun injuries.
According to Amnesty, police initially used tear gas as the protesters gathered and later deployed electric shock batons and pellet guns.
The organisation said its findings contradicted the government’s repeated claims that security forces had exercised restraint and had not used excessive force.
The report has added to mounting criticism of the Indian authorities over their handling of the youth-led protests.
Opposition politicians have also demanded answers from Home Minister Amit Shah over allegations of police brutality.
The protests eventually contributed to Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, marking a significant political setback for the government amid growing youth anger over examination-related controversies.