'Withdraw FIRs now': CJP to BJP after top court clarifies order on protest-linked cases

CJP urges BJP government to withdraw protest-related FIRs after Supreme Court clarification

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday demanded the immediate withdrawal of FIRs registered against protesters, citing the Supreme Court's clarification on its earlier order concerning cases arising out of recent demonstrations.

Addressing reporters, CJP leaders said the apex court's observations made it clear that criminal proceedings against peaceful protesters should not continue without proper legal basis.

"Withdraw the FIRs now," the party said, urging the BJP-led government to act without delay.

Party cites Supreme Court observations

The demand comes after the Supreme Court clarified aspects of its earlier order relating to protest-linked cases. According to the CJP, the clarification reinforces constitutional protections for peaceful assembly and expression.

The party alleged that several FIRs were filed against protesters for exercising their democratic rights and argued that continuing such cases would be inconsistent with the spirit of the court's observations.

Political row intensifies

The BJP has not accepted the CJP's demand, maintaining that law enforcement agencies act independently and that any criminal case is dealt with strictly in accordance with the law and available evidence.

The latest exchange has added to the political confrontation over the handling of recent protests, with opposition parties accusing the government of targeting dissent, while the BJP has defended police action as necessary to maintain public order.

Legal process continues

Legal experts note that the Supreme Court's clarification does not automatically nullify FIRs. Any decision to withdraw criminal cases must follow the procedure prescribed under law, and authorities are expected to examine individual cases on their merits.

The matter is likely to remain under political and legal scrutiny as stakeholders interpret the implications of the apex court's observations.