A general diary entry by the RAF reveals that pellet guns were used against unarmed protestors on July 20 under police orders, contradicting earlier denials.

Key Takeaways

  • RAF general diary confirms pellet gun use under DCP orders on July 20.
  • The incident follows reports of serious injuries, including potential vision loss for a 19-year-old.
  • RAF has withdrawn pump-action guns and electric shields from Jantar Mantar.
  • Inspector General noted 'serious deficiencies' in RAF's sensitive policing approach.

A significant revelation has emerged regarding the crackdown on protestors in Delhi. A general diary entry filed by the Rapid Action Force (RAF) at the Parliament Street police station confirms that pellet guns were indeed used during the July 20 march toward Parliament. This directly contradicts previous denials by the Delhi Police regarding the usage of such weaponry.

The diary entry, registered in the early hours of July 22, states that the use of ballistic cartridges containing plastic pellets was ordered by a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP). This comes on the heels of reports that at least two individuals sustained severe injuries, with one 19-year-old, Sahil Lochab, facing the risk of permanent blindness due to a pellet piercing his pupil.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this incident highlights a critical gap between official police narratives and operational realities. The use of non-lethal but potentially blinding weaponry against unarmed protestors raises profound questions about the proportionality of force used by security agencies in the national capital.

The use of pellet guns against unarmed demonstrators represents a significant deviation from the principle of 'sensitive policing'.

Following the outcry, RAF Inspector General Seema Dhundhia conducted a review, noting "serious deficiencies" in the operation. She observed that some personnel used unnecessary force on individuals who had already separated from the crowd. Consequently, the RAF has withdrawn pump-action guns, anti-riot guns, and electric shields from personnel deployed at Jantar Mantar.

Historical Background

The use of pellet guns in crowd control has been a subject of intense legal and human rights scrutiny in India. While authorities argue they are a necessary alternative to live ammunition, medical experts and activists warn of the high risk of permanent ocular damage and other debilitating injuries.

Did You Know?: The RAF is a specialized unit of the CRPF specifically trained for riot control and maintaining law and order in sensitive areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What was the official reason for using pellet guns?
A: According to the RAF diary, the pellets were fired under the orders of the DCP to control the crowd during the protest.

Q2: What changes have been implemented after the incident?
A: The RAF has withdrawn several types of crowd-control equipment, including electric shields and pump-action guns, from the deployment site.