The Delhi High Court on Wednesday heard a series of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) alleging that Delhi Police used excessive force while dispersing protesters during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s "Sansad Chalo" march held on July 20. The petitions have intensified the legal scrutiny surrounding one of the country's most widely discussed protest movements. 

During the hearing, the petitioners urged the court to direct the registration of an FIR into the alleged police action, preserve CCTV footage from the protest sites, and constitute an independent Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the events. They also sought protection for protesters from coercive action while the matter remains under consideration. 

The High Court observed that existing legal remedies are available for seeking the registration of an FIR and noted that such complaints should first be pursued under the applicable criminal procedure. At the same time, the court issued notices to the Centre and the Delhi Police on the PILs and directed that relevant CCTV footage be preserved until further proceedings. 

The petitions arise from allegations that police employed disproportionate force while dispersing demonstrators attempting to march towards Parliament. Protesters have claimed they were subjected to baton charges and other coercive measures, while Delhi Police has rejected several allegations, maintaining that officers acted lawfully to control an unauthorized protest and preserve public order. The police have also denied reports suggesting the use of pellet guns during the operation. 

The legal proceedings come amid a broader political and public debate over the handling of the CJP protests. Multiple FIRs have already been registered in connection with violence and property damage reported during the march, while the High Court's intervention is expected to shape the next phase of judicial review into the conduct of law enforcement authorities during the demonstrations.