Joshi Appeals for Non‑violent Handling of CJP Demonstrators

Murli Manohar Joshi, a veteran leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party, posted a detailed message on Facebook demanding restraint from the authorities handling the CJP protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The protest, sparked by allegations of a NEET answer key leak and calls for the education minister’s resignation, has drawn students from across India.

Joshi expressed deep sorrow at witnessing young citizens occupy the capital’s avenues and urged the government to treat their grievances with respect and foresight. He insisted that the issues raised are legitimate and deserve a solution rooted in empathy, not merely in punitive legal actions.

The former minister condemned any instances of brutal force against women and teenage participants, stating that such measures would move a large portion of society away from the nation’s development aspirations. He appealed to the government to avoid a heavy‑handed approach and instead pursue constructive dialogue.

In response, Delhi Police clarified that reports suggesting the use of the National Security Act (NSA) against the protestors were misleading. The police highlighted that an existing administrative renewal—originally issued on July 15—continues to be in effect, authorising the commissioner to order preventive detention under NSA sections 3(2) and 3(3) between July 19 and October 18, 2026, when required for national security or public order. Officials emphasized that this is a routine administrative update, not a new or extraordinary power.