24 July,2026 05:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The MNS chief said that the matter should be discussed in Parliament and urged civil society to reflect on the issue. File Pic
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Friday alleged 'vendetta' behind police lathi charge on students during CJP protest in Delhi and demanded action in the matter.
In a post on X, Raj Thackeray questioned the police action against students protesting in Delhi over alleged examination irregularities, asking why officers who allegedly assaulted students have not faced disciplinary action.
Thackeray compared the situation with schools, where teachers can face action for physically punishing students. He argued that the same principle of accountability should apply to police personnel.
He said that videos circulating online appeared to show not only protesters but also bystanders being beaten during the demonstrations.
Raj Thackeray claimed such action could not have taken place without instructions from senior authorities.
He added that police personnel often carry out orders from their superiors and said responsibility should also extend to those who authorised the use of force.
The MNS leader said the issue was not whether the State has the authority to use force, but whether that force is exercised within constitutional limits.
Referring to international principles followed by the United Nations and Amnesty International, Raj Thackeray said that any use of force should be lawful, necessary, proportionate and subject to accountability.
He also pointed to countries including Norway, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and New Zealand, where police use of force is routinely examined through independent inquiries.
The MNS chief said that the matter should be discussed in Parliament and urged civil society to reflect on the issue.
He argued that the strength of a constitutional democracy is measured not by how firmly it suppresses dissent, but by how responsibly and proportionately it responds to those expressing opposing views.
The remarks come amid continuing protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including NEET. Student groups and supporters have been demanding accountability, reforms in the examination system and action against those responsible for the alleged irregularities.
The protests have seen police intervention in Delhi, prompting criticism from several opposition leaders, activists and political parties over the use of force against demonstrators.
