The CRPF is investigating media reports regarding the alleged use of pellet guns by the Rapid Action Force (RAF) during a July 20 protest march in New Delhi. Two civilians, including a teenager at risk of blindness, were injured.

Key Takeaways

  • CRPF is currently 'verifying' media reports of pellet gun usage during the July 20 Parliament march.
  • Two individuals sustained injuries from pellets, with one 19-year-old facing potential permanent vision loss.
  • The Rapid Action Force (RAF) was deployed near Jantar Mantar alongside Delhi Police.
  • The Ministry of Home Affairs has yet to issue an official clarification.

New Delhi: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) confirmed on Friday that it is in the process of "verifying media reports" concerning the alleged deployment of pellet guns by the Rapid Action Force (RAF) against unarmed demonstrators. This investigation follows a report by The Hindu, marking the first widely documented instance of security forces using such weaponry against civilians in the national capital.

According to a CRPF official, no formal action has been initiated as the veracity of the claims is still being ascertained. Currently, two victims are undergoing treatment in government hospitals. The family of 19-year-old Sahil Lochab reports that a pellet pierced his pupil, placing him at high risk of losing sight in his right eye.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the alleged use of disproportionate force in the heart of India's capital could have profound implications for policing standards and civil liberties. The escalation from traditional crowd control to the use of pellet guns signifies a shift in tactical deployment that demands immediate scrutiny.

The use of pellet guns in a metropolitan setting raises critical questions regarding the proportionality of force used during peaceful assemblies.

While the Delhi Police had previously denied the use of pellet guns, the tools—including shock batons and pellet guns—are standard equipment for the RAF, the specialized anti-riot unit of the CRPF. The Delhi High Court has already sought responses from the Centre and Delhi Police regarding petitions alleging excessive force.

Historical Context

The use of pellet guns has a controversial history in India. They were notably used during the 2024 farmers' protests at the Punjab-Haryana border and during the ethnic violence in Manipur in 2023. Most significantly, their use during the 2016 unrest in Jammu & Kashmir led to widespread international outcry due to numerous instances of civilian blindness.

Did You Know?: Pellet guns discharge small metal projectiles that can penetrate skin and cause permanent ocular damage upon impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the RAF?
The Rapid Action Force (RAF) is a specialized anti-riot unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

2. Has the government responded?
As of now, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has not issued a formal statement on the matter.