A woman from Ranchi, Nootan Toppo, has alleged that she was hit without provocation by security forces during the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) ‘Sansad Chalo’ march on July 20, resulting in a severe ear injury. Toppo, who works in Gurgaon, was participating in the demonstration in Delhi to advocate for educational reforms and address the issue of paper leaks when she sustained the injury.
Allegations of Unprovoked Lathi Charge
According to Toppo’s account, security personnel, including members of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and plainclothes officers, initiated an unprovoked lathi charge on the peaceful protesters. She claimed that some uniformed personnel were not wearing badges and that individuals in civilian attire used abusive language towards the demonstrators. Toppo stated that she was hit on her right ear, causing significant bleeding.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that medical records and the medico-legal report (MLC) from Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital noted a swelling of the ear lobe and a suspected gunshot injury, possibly from a rubber bullet, as per her medical reports. Toppo underwent a reconstructive plastic surgery that lasted nearly two hours, involving stitches. She reported continued hearing impairment and recurring fever following the procedure.
Protest and Subsequent Events
The ‘Sansad Chalo’ march was organized by the CJP to demand action on issues related to competitive examinations. Reports from various news outlets indicate that the protest saw clashes between demonstrators and security forces, with allegations of excessive force being used. Delhi Police, however, refuted some claims of assault and injuries, urging the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
During the ensuing events, several protesters and police personnel sustained injuries. A 21-year-old woman, identified as Sakshi in some reports, was admitted to RML Hospital in critical condition and placed on ventilator support. However, subsequent medical bulletins confirmed her improvement, stating that she was taken off the ventilator and was conscious and responding to commands.
Context of Educational Reforms and Protests
The protest was part of a broader movement demanding accountability and reforms in the examination system, particularly concerning paper leaks and technical glitches in competitive exams. Activists and students have been vocal about these issues, leading to demonstrations across the country. The CJP march aimed to escalate these demands by approaching Parliament.
The Ministry of Education has previously addressed concerns regarding examination irregularities. However, the events surrounding the ‘Sansad Chalo’ march have brought renewed attention to the methods of protest and the response from authorities. Reports indicate that the protest was suspended after the central government agreed to address the demands raised by the CJP.
The Chenab Times News Desk