The Supreme Court of India invoked its extraordinary constitutional jurisdiction under Article 142 to quash all First Information Reports and pending criminal cases registered against students who participated in nationwide NEET-UG protest demonstrations.
A bench presided over by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued the ruling after taking into consideration formal undertakings submitted by the central government regarding examination security reforms, administrative grievance mechanisms, and financial relief measures for affected candidates. The apex court observed that students who engaged in peaceful democratic protests concerning examination integrity should not remain encumbered by lingering criminal litigation that could impair their academic trajectories and career prospects.
The court directed all state police departments and law enforcement agencies to immediately drop charges and terminate active judicial proceedings stemming from the protest demonstrations. The bench clarified that the protective order applies specifically to students and aspirants, while investigations concerning organized criminal cheating syndicates and paper distribution cartels will continue unimpeded.
Legal representatives for the students welcomed the directive, describing it as a humane exercise of judicial power that restores legal certainty for thousands of young medical aspirants across the country.
The bench emphasized that invoking Article 142 was necessary to render complete justice and prevent young aspirants from enduring protracted legal proceedings for expressing democratic concerns. The apex court also directed the National Testing Agency to implement institutional reforms recommended by high-level expert committees, including enhanced biometrics, digital question distribution, and secure examination center audits.
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Sources:
https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-september-01-2026/article71415031.ece