Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officials confirmed on Friday, July 24, 2026, that they are investigating media reports alleging the use of firearms by Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel against unarmed protesters during a July 20 march to Delhi’s Parliament. The statement came three days after a report by The Hindu detailed the first known instance of security forces using airgun fire against civilians in the national capital.
A CRPF spokesperson told reporters that no disciplinary actions had been taken yet, as the authenticity of the claims remained under review. Two individuals allegedly injured by bullets fired by RAF personnel—part of CRPF’s specialized riot-control unit—are receiving treatment in government hospitals. One of them, 19-year-old Sahil Lohab, faces potential permanent vision loss in his right eye after a bullet pierced his pupil, according to his family.
Deployment of RAF Units and Denials of Firearm Use
RAF units, equipped with pistols and stun batons, were deployed in the Jantar Mantar area and its surroundings on July 20, according to a statement from Delhi Police.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has not commented on the incident, leaving the situation without official clarification on the proportionality of force used. The Delhi High Court ordered both the central government and Delhi Police to respond to public interest litigation alleging excessive force during the protest, citing violations of fundamental rights.
Past Incidents of Firearm Use in Protests
This is not the first time firearms have been reported in Indian protest scenarios. In 2024, farmers’ groups near the Punjab-Haryana border alleged that police used airgun fire during a demonstration, though authorities denied the claim. A 2023 incident in Manipur saw security forces deploy similar weapons during ethnic clashes, sparking widespread outrage. Earlier, in 2016, airguns were used in Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in multiple eye injuries among protesters.
Photographs from the July 20 protest show RAF personnel in tactical gear, including batons and sidearms, deployed near the historic Jantar Mantar monument. The image, provided by a special agreement, was shared by local media outlets.
Legal and Judicial Developments
A separate case filed by the Civil Justice Project (CJP) is set for hearing on July 24, seeking a comprehensive inquiry into the use of force during the protest. The court also requested responses from both entities regarding allegations of unlawful violence.
Meanwhile, the CRPF’s investigation into media reports remains ongoing.
What Comes Next?
Readers are encouraged to share their perspectives and stay informed as developments unfold. For more updates, follow official CRPF and Delhi Police statements, as well as court proceedings.
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