Itanagar: The Arunachal Pradesh unit of the Human Rights Law Network (HRLN) has written to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs highlighting the use of force by the police on the protest rally held by the aspirants of the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) in Itanagar on February 17.
The letter states that the protest rally was held to meet with the governor of the state and request the cancellation of the oath ceremony of the new APPSC members and chairman until the investigation regarding the paper leak was completed.
The HRLN said that the “peaceful rally” was stopped by police personnel and paramilitary forces, resulting in injuries due to the use of tear gas and lathi charge.
The HRLN has alleged that the use of force by the police was unnecessary and disproportionate, and it resulted in a breach of the citizens’ right to peaceful protest. The letter said that the government should ensure that citizens are free to express their views without fear of reprisal or excessive use of force.
“The incident highlights the need for the government to address citizens’ grievances and concerns and provide adequate channels for peaceful protests,” it said.
On February 17, thousands, mostly comprising of job aspirants, took to the streets in Itanagar. The protests turned violent as some protesters clashed with the police, resulting in injuries to several people, including police personnel.
The protests led to the imposition of curfew in the city and the suspension of mobile internet services.
Calling for action, the HRLN raised concerns about the safety protocols followed by the police, as a used shell canister was found at the place of occurrence, indicating that it had expired, and yet it was still used by the police to disperse the protesters.
“The use of expired tear gas canisters is a clear violation of safety standards, and it puts the lives of the protesters and the police at risk,” it said.
The letter calls upon the government to investigate this matter and take appropriate action against those responsible for using expired tear gas canisters.
The HRLN has urged the government to ensure that safety protocols are strictly followed by the police while handling dangerous weapons like tear gas canisters.
The use of expired canisters is a serious safety hazard that can cause severe harm, and it must be avoided at all costs. The safety of citizens and police officers is of paramount importance, and it is imperative that the police are trained to handle such situations with caution and care, it added.
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