• August 18, 2026 13:30
  SG doubts whether FIRs could be filtered as suggested by the court

  Solicitor General Tushar Mehta expresses doubt as to whether the FIRs could be filtered in the manner suggested by the Court.

  Justice Joymalya Bagchi says that the Delhi Police cannot take a “generic” view and must clarify what it means by “serious criminality”.

• August 18, 2026 13:28
  Right to protest or express dissent peacefully must be protected: CJI

  The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant says that the court will consider using Article 142 to quash FIRs in which there is no controversy or doubt and that clearly involve students.

  He also says that FIRs indicating persons with criminal backgrounds will be discussed and a decision taken. The CJI further says everyone has to be mindful of the right to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19, emphasising that the right to protest or express dissent peacefully must be protected.

• August 18, 2026 13:28
  Quash FIRs against students without criminal backgrounds: Advocate Vrinda Grover

  Advocate Vrinda Grover says that the Supreme Court should consider using its plenary powers under Article 142 to quash FIRs against students and youths without criminal antecedents.

  Solicitor General Tushar Mehta states that anti-social elements and criminals have inveigled themselves among the protestors.

Published – August 18, 2026 01:26 pm IST