The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to preserve the log of ammunition used in protests, specifically regarding the use of rubber-armored (RAF) pellets during demonstrations. The court’s order came in response to a petition filed by Advocate Vrinda Grover, who represented petitioners challenging the use of such ammunition (thehindu.com). The plea focuses on the base of metallic kinetic pellets, which were reportedly used during a protest led by the Chief Justice of India (CJP) in central Delhi.
The petition, filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, was jointly submitted by activist Azad and two individuals who claim to have sustained injuries from pellet guns during the "Sansad Chalo" protest on July 20. The petitioners argue that the use of RAF pellets violates constitutional rights and demands transparency in their deployment (thehindubusinessline.com). The court’s directive to preserve the ammunition log aims to ensure accountability and clarity in the use of such weapons by law enforcement.
Earlier, the Supreme Court had ruled that police may use pellet guns in exceptional situations, emphasizing that such force should be proportionate and justified (The Times of India). This ruling underscores the court’s attempt to balance public safety with the protection of civil liberties. The current order to preserve the ammunition log reflects an ongoing judicial review of the legality and regulation of pellet gun use in protest scenarios.
