TMC's Sagarika Ghose seeks Rajya Sabha debate on force used against NEET protesters

New Delhi: TMC Rajya Sabha deputy leader Sagarika Ghose has submitted a notice seeking suspension of the day's business in the Upper House on Monday to discuss the alleged use of excessive force by security personnel against students protesting over the NEET issue

In the notice addressed to the Rajya Sabha Secretary-General, Ghose on Sunday sought suspension of the normal business of the House under Rule 267 of Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business to allow an immediate discussion on the issue, saying it is of "grave national importance, according to sources.

Also Read: Rajya Sabha washout continues for 5th day; adjourned till Monday amid NEET paper leak row


"The right to peaceful protest is a constitutional right in our country. Yet it is a matter of grave concern and alarm that student protestors, during their recent peaceful protest against irregularities in examination papers, were the targets of lethal and semi-lethal force from security agencies," the notice said.

It alleged that reports had emerged of pellet gun injuries, "including the possible loss of vision of one student due to use of the pellet gun by the Rapid Action Force".

The notice also referred to eyewitness accounts alleging that individuals in plain clothes assaulted students and sought answers on who authorised the use of a semi-lethal weapon such as pellet guns and what protocols were followed.

Also Read: RS Chairman asks first-time MPs to embrace AI, uphold parliamentary traditions

Ghose urged the Chair to suspend all listed business at 11 am, 12 noon and 2 pm on July 27,

Delhi Police has denied that its personnel used pellet guns during the protest, while the CRPF, whose Rapid Action Force was deployed on the day, has not publicly responded to the allegations.