SC Issues Notice To Centre On Pellet Gun Use, Seeks SOP After July 20 Protest Controversy

The Supreme Court has sought the Centre's SOP on pellet gun use after a plea challenged their deployment for crowd control during protests. The court also heard demands for a ban and compensation for injured victims.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 30 July 2026, 2:07 PM IST

SC Issues Notice To Centre On Pellet Gun Use (Img: X)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has sought a response from the Central government on a petition challenging the use of pellet guns for crowd control. The court has asked the Centre to submit the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) governing the deployment of pellet guns and explain the circumstances under which they can be used.

SC Issues Notice to Centre

The notice was issued while hearing a petition filed by former Intelligence Bureau Special Director Yashovardhan Azad along with two individuals who claimed to have suffered pellet injuries during the July 20 police action at Delhi's Jantar Mantar protest.

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The petitioners have sought restrictions on the use of pellet guns, arguing that such weapons can cause serious injuries and should not be used against peaceful protesters.

Court Asks Petitioners to Modify Plea

During the hearing, the Supreme Court asked the petitioners to reconsider their demand for a complete ban on pellet guns and make suitable changes to their plea. At the same time, the court directed the Centre to place the existing SOP on record before further proceedings.

Plea Seeks Ban and Compensation

The petition argues that using pellet guns for crowd control is disproportionate and raises constitutional concerns. It seeks the removal of pellet guns from law enforcement use during public demonstrations and calls for safer alternatives for managing crowds.

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The petition also seeks compensation and medical assistance for people allegedly injured during the July 20 Jantar Mantar protest.

Rahul Gandhi Demands Independent Probe

The Supreme Court hearing comes amid a wider political controversy over the alleged use of force during the student protest.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has demanded an independent Supreme Court-monitored committee to investigate the alleged police action against protesters. He said students affected during the incident deserve justice and called for an impartial inquiry.