Pellet Guns in India
Polity / Internal Security · Saturday, 1 August 2026
The Supreme Court declined a blanket ban on pellet guns, allowing their use in exceptional crowd-control situations. The case followed allegations of pellet use against NEET-UG paper leak protesters.
Quick highlights
- SC declined blanket ban.
- Permitted in exceptional circumstances.
- Linked to crowd control situations.
- Concerns over injuries and rights.
Context
A Supreme Court Bench led by CJI Surya Kant heard pleas seeking prohibition of pellet guns after alleged use against protesters.
Key Facts
Court held pellet guns may be used in exceptional circumstances for crowd control rather than imposing a blanket ban.
Significance
Raises issues of proportionality, human rights, and standards governing use of force in democratic policing.
Challenges / Way Forward
Ensure strict guidelines, accountability, non-lethal alternatives, and human-rights compliant crowd management protocols.
Exam Angle
GS II: Fundamental rights and policing. GS III: Internal security and crowd control methods.
Remember this
- SC declined blanket ban.
- Exceptional use permitted.
- Debate tied to NEET-UG protests.
- Concerns over human rights.