Thiruvananthapuram, July 31: The Kerala Government has announced its decision to withdraw all police cases registered in connection with peaceful protests held across the state in support of the nationwide NEET agitation. The move comes as part of the government’s effort to acknowledge the democratic nature of the demonstrations and ensure that participants are not subjected to prolonged legal proceedings.
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the state police have been directed not to pursue any of the First Information Reports (FIRs) filed during the protests. According to the minister, the demonstrations were peaceful, remained within the framework of democratic rights, and reflected public concern over an issue of national importance. He emphasized that the government does not intend to criminalize citizens who participated in lawful protests expressing their views on the NEET examination controversy.
The protests were organized across several districts in Kerala in solidarity with the nationwide movement demanding greater transparency and accountability in the conduct of the NEET examination. Students, parents, teachers, youth organizations, and political groups participated in demonstrations, raising concerns over examination irregularities and calling for reforms in the national entrance examination system.
The decision follows earlier discussions within the state government regarding requests to review and withdraw the cases. Officials said the withdrawal process would begin through the appropriate legal channels, ensuring that pending cases related to the peaceful demonstrations are formally closed in accordance with legal procedures.
The government’s announcement has been welcomed by many student organizations and civil society groups, who described it as a positive step toward protecting democratic freedoms and the right to peaceful protest. They expressed hope that the move would prevent unnecessary legal burdens on students and young protesters while reinforcing public confidence in democratic institutions.
The Kerala Government reiterated that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, law enforcement agencies will continue to act firmly against incidents involving violence or damage to public property. Officials also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to maintaining public order while respecting citizens’ constitutional rights to express their concerns through peaceful means.
