Supreme Court Clears Path for Mass FIR Withdrawals in CJP Student Agitation
New Delhi | 3 August 2026
In a major relief for thousands of students who joined the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protests against exam paper leaks, the Supreme Court on Monday clarified that Delhi and other states are free to close or withdraw FIRs registered against protesters — except those accused of grave and heinous offences.
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, resolved the ambiguity around the phrase “criminal antecedents” that had appeared in its 28 July order.
“It is clarified that the NCT of Delhi and any other State shall be at liberty to close or withdraw FIRs against protesters. The expression ‘criminal antecedents’ is clarified to include grave and grievous offences.”
What the Court Said
- States may withdraw or close cases against ordinary student protesters in accordance with law.
- The exclusion applies only to those facing serious charges such as murder, rape or other heinous crimes.
- Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court the Centre remains “serious” about its commitment not to pursue cases against students without such antecedents.
- Over 2,700 individuals with serious criminal backgrounds have been identified; their cases will continue.
The court also indicated it may frame guidelines on the use of pellet guns and examine allegations of police excesses. The matter is listed next on 18 August.
CJP Reaction
CJP Chief Spokesperson Saurav Das welcomed the clarification as “another big victory of the youth.”
Speaking to the media outside the Supreme Court and later on X, Das said:
“Now that the Supreme Court has removed all confusions, we expect the Government of India and all BJP/NDA-ruled states to immediately honour the assurances given on 25 July to the youth of this country.”
He stressed that mere closure reports are not enough — the movement seeks complete withdrawal of FIRs and a written assurance that peaceful protesters will not face future action.
Background
The CJP protests, which began over NEET and other paper-leak scandals, saw a 36-day agitation culminating in the ‘Chalo Sansad’ march. After talks with the Centre on 25 July, the agitation was called off on the understanding that cases against student participants would be withdrawn.
Subsequent ambiguity over the scope of “criminal antecedents” had delayed implementation. Monday’s clarification removes that obstacle.
Next Steps
CJP has urged state governments to act without delay. The organisation continues to monitor the process and has signalled readiness to resume agitation if the July 25 commitments remain unfulfilled.
Compiled from Supreme Court proceedings, statements by Saurav Das, and contemporary reports. Published via Kolkata CJP Solidarity Hub.