Bengaluru Freedom Park NEET protest sparks political row; FIR filed over controversial posters

Source: The Hindu Bureau

A protest over the NEET question paper leak at Bengaluru’s Freedom Park has triggered a political controversy after the Upparpet Police registered an FIR against a woman for allegedly displaying “provocative posters” during the demonstration.

Background

Students across the country have been protesting against the alleged NEET paper leak, demanding transparency and accountability in the examination process. As part of the nationwide agitation, around 1,000 to 1,500 students and members of various organisations gathered at Freedom Park on July 24 for a peaceful demonstration.

Reference to Umar Khalid

According to the FIR filed by PSI Sulochana of Upparpet Police Station, police personnel were deployed at the venue from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. to maintain law and order during the protest, which was organised under the leadership of AISF Karnataka State President Arun Kumar.

At around 5 p.m., a young woman allegedly displayed posters bearing messages referring to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam — both accused in the 2020 North-East Delhi riots case. One of the posters also allegedly carried a derogatory slogan against Bengaluru police.

The complainant stated that the posters were noticed by police personnel on duty and were immediately seized to prevent any breach of peace. Police further alleged that the slogans were capable of provoking the public and disturbing communal harmony and public order.

The identity of the woman was not immediately established, as she left the protest venue after displaying the posters.

Legal Action

Based on the complaint, the Upparpet Police registered a case under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which deals with wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause a riot.

Police are analysing CCTV footage, photographs, videos, and other evidence to identify the woman.

Political Turn

The incident soon took a political turn:

• Karnataka BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra accused the Congress government and the Home Department of failing to act against what he described as “anti-national activities” during the protest. He demanded strict action against those responsible.

• Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge responded by stating that the police had acted promptly by registering an FIR and initiating an investigation. He also praised the Bengaluru Police for managing the protest peacefully without resorting to force while ensuring law and order was maintained.

Ongoing Investigation

Police said the investigation is continuing, and further legal action will be taken based on the evidence collected during the probe.