The Police Assault on Protestors issue has raised serious concerns about police conduct during student demonstrations. Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan called recent incidents of police personnel physically attacking demonstrators “very, very distressing.”
Justice Bhuyan made the remarks at the launch of former IPS officer Yashovardhan Azad’s book, Policing the Republic. He also referred to the landmark D.K. Basu v. State of West Bengal judgment.
Justice Bhuyan Expresses Concern
Justice Bhuyan expressed deep concern over recent incidents involving police personnel and protesters. He said that watching officers physically attack demonstrators was deeply troubling.
He also raised concerns about the conduct of law enforcement agencies during student protests. Police officers must maintain restraint while dealing with public demonstrations.
Decline in Professional Detachment
Justice Bhuyan highlighted the importance of professional detachment within the police force. He said officers must perform their duties with objectivity and restraint.
According to PTI reports, he particularly stressed these values for young IPS officers. Public assemblies and student protests often require officers to exercise greater patience.
Reference to D.K. Basu Judgment
During his address, Justice Bhuyan referred to the Supreme Court’s 1997 judgment in D.K. Basu v. State of West Bengal.
The judgment established important safeguards for arrests and custodial interrogation. It also recognised the right to monetary compensation when state authorities violate fundamental rights.
Justice Bhuyan’s reference highlighted the continuing importance of police accountability. The judgment remains a key precedent on protecting individual rights during police action.
Concerns Over Peaceful Protests
Justice Bhuyan’s comments also drew attention to the shrinking space for peaceful dissent. He has previously spoken about the need to protect freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The Police Assault on Protestors debate reflects wider concerns about how authorities respond to student demonstrations. Protesters have constitutional rights to express their views peacefully.
Police authorities must balance public order with these fundamental freedoms. Officers must also ensure that their actions remain lawful, proportionate, and accountable.
