India: Crackdown on Peaceful Protesters in New Delhi Raises Serious Human Rights Concerns - Amnesty International USA

### India: Crackdown on Peaceful Protesters in New Delhi Raises Serious Human Rights Concerns

India has been engulfed in controversy following a recent crackdown on peaceful protesters in New Delhi. The protests, mainly comprising students, began in response to the government's decision to hold the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) in several languages, as well as alleged corruption and police brutality. On the National Education Day, January 11, the protests against the NEET exam, turned violent as police resorted to using lathi charge (baton charge) and tear gas on the protesters. Multiple student organizations and political parties, including the Congress party, have strongly condemned the police actions.

The crackdown on peaceful protesters has raised serious human rights concerns, and several organizations have expressed their shock and dismay over the government's actions. Amnesty International USA stated that the crackdown on peaceful protesters raises serious human rights concerns. The issue has also been taken up by the opposition in the parliament by the Congress party leader, Mallikarjun Kharge, who has demanded accountability from the government. The Congress party has also vowed to take action against those responsible for beating up the protesting youth.

The protests and subsequent police crackdown have become a major point of contention in the country, with the government on one side and opposition parties and activists on the other. The Congress party leader has decided not to celebrate his birthday, seen as an act of solidarity with the protesting students. The ongoing standoff is likely to continue, with the government facing growing criticism for its handling of the situation.