SC: Link Between Home Ministry, Delhi Police in Ramlila Crackdown

New Delhi : In its verdict on Ramlila crackdown, the Supreme Court has categorically stated that there exists a link between UnionHome Ministry and delhi  Police on the nightof 4 June, 2011. The Supreme Court has held the Delhi Police guilty of using excess force on Ramdev’s followers. The SC referred to the police action on Baba Ramdev as ‘arbitrary’, and has directed criminal prosecution against police personnel of Delhi, who were involved in the crackdown. “Delhi Police should have thought before it acted”, said Supreme Court.

On the case of Rajbala, who lost her life after being caught in the stampede that followed the crackdown, the SC ordered Delhi Police to pay 75% of the compensation. They are also to pay the same to those who have been injured in the stampede. Bharat Swabhiman trust has been asked to pay 25%.

However, Bharat Swabhiman Trust belonging to Baba Ramdev has also been charged along with the Delhi Police, on grounds of negligence.The judgment says that Ramdev and his group of protesters should have vacated the premises of Ramlila Maidan after being directed to do so. Ramdev should also have taken care to control his supporters. Criminal prosecution has also been directed against the followers of Ramdev who behaved in an unruly manner on the night of crackdown.