NEET Protest Row: Assam, Bihar Withdraw Cases as CJP Suspends Agitation Threat

Assam, Bihar Withdraw Cases Against NEET Protesters Following CJP’s Warning of Fresh Agitation

The governments of Assam and Bihar have announced the withdrawal of cases registered against NEET protesters, following a warning from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) that it would resume its agitation if legal action against students and demonstrators was not rolled back.

Both states also said those arrested during the protests would be released after the necessary legal formalities.

Assam to Withdraw Five Cases

The Assam government on Monday said it would withdraw all five cases registered in connection with protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) examination. In a statement, the Home Department said the process of withdrawing the cases would begin in accordance with the law and that no adverse legal action would be taken against those who participated in the demonstrations.

It also announced a review of all arrests made during the protests, adding that those in custody would be released after completing the required legal procedures. According to official figures, 13 people had been arrested in connection with the five cases as of 6 pm on July 26.

Bihar Announces Similar Decision

The Bihar government also ordered the withdrawal of all cases registered against NEET protesters and directed the immediate release of those arrested during the demonstrations.

The Home Department said FIRs, criminal complaints and show-cause notices issued against people who took part in protests before 6 pm on July 26 would be withdrawn. It also clarified that no punitive or retaliatory action would be taken against them.

Police said 694 people were detained during the Bihar bandh called by pro-Left student organisations on July 25. While 339 minors were released, the remaining 355 people were booked under various legal provisions. The government said all those arrested or detained in connection with the protests would now be released and no further action would be pursued.

CJP Claims Government Had Agreed During Talks

The announcements came days after the CJP demanded that all cases against students, organisers and supporters of the NEET protest movement be withdrawn. CJP national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the issue was discussed during talks with the government on July 25, before the party ended its 36-day protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.

According to Ranka, the government had agreed to withdraw existing FIRs, refrain from registering fresh cases against protesters and provide a written assurance after completing legal consultations. “We are waiting for the government to share the written agreement. We hope a senior Cabinet minister will honour the agreement, all FIRs will be withdrawn, no protester or organiser will be harassed, and no fresh cases will be filed in future,” he said.

Ranka had earlier warned that the CJP would revive its agitation if the assurances were not implemented and those arrested during the protests were not released.