In a significant move to address the unrest that rocked the nation last month, India’s Supreme Court has established an independent committee to investigate claims of police brutality during student-led demonstrations. The protests, which were ignited by a major question paper leak for national medical entrance exams, quickly escalated from localized gatherings in New Delhi to widespread civil action. The newly formed panel, comprised of retired judges and police chiefs, is tasked with reviewing serious allegations that security forces used excessive power—including pellet guns and physical violence—against the protesters.

The court's intervention follows a wave of petitions highlighting claims of targeted harassment and severe injuries sustained by those participating in the rallies. While the government has faced its most intense political challenge since the start of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, the situation recently stabilized following the resignation of the education minister and promises of sweeping exam reforms. Although the Supreme Court has not stipulated a fixed deadline for the inquiry, it has requested that the panel provide an interim report promptly to ensure accountability for both the protesters' actions and the conduct of security personnel.