Delhi Police Probe CJP Protest Violence and 2,873 Suspects
The Delhi Police Crime Branch has launched a major probe into the July 20 CJP protest violence, using facial recognition to track 2,873 suspects.
The Delhi Police Crime Branch has officially launched a high-stakes investigation into the widespread violence that erupted during the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest in New Delhi on July 20. Following the unrest, authorities have registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita to address the chaos that unfolded during the demonstration.
Focus on Premeditated Violence and Criminal Elements
Investigators are working to determine if the violence was a spontaneous outburst or a carefully planned operation. A primary objective of the probe is to establish whether criminal elements infiltrated the protest sites after the CJP issued its call for a march toward Parliament.
The investigation aims to uncover the specific roles played by those allegedly responsible for the following:
- Assaults on police personnel: Targeted attacks on officers on duty.
- Vandalism: Intentional damage to public infrastructure.
- Destruction of property: Specifically focusing on the damage caused to police vehicles.
Facial Recognition Identifies Thousands of Suspects
In a significant technological push, the Crime Branch is utilizing data collected through the Facial Recognition System (FRS). This digital evidence has allowed officials to identify 2,873 suspects. Notably, many of these individuals identified through the system are reported to have existing criminal backgrounds.
This massive identification effort follows a period of intense security at Parliament. On the day of the incident, security was heightened and several entry gates to the Parliament premises were closed as the CJP's 'Sansad Chalo' march escalated. Protesters had originally gathered at Jantar Mantar ahead of the Monsoon Session, leading to large-scale deployments of security forces and rigorous drills to maintain order.
Footage Reveals Stone Pelting in Connaught Place
The investigation is also being bolstered by video evidence released by the Delhi Police. Purported footage from the aftermath shows significant unrest in the Connaught Place area, specifically capturing groups of youths allegedly pelting stones from behind and near police barricades.
It is important to note that following directions from the Supreme Court, the Delhi Police had previously cancelled 17 FIRs related to the July violence. However, this new Crime Branch probe marks a specific, targeted effort to hold those responsible for the physical destruction and attacks on law enforcement accountable.
Amidst the ongoing legal proceedings, the Delhi Police have urged the public to maintain peace and avoid the spread of unverified information or rumors regarding the protests, which were initially sparked by allegations surrounding a NEET exam paper leak.