Mohammad Junaid Continues Fight After Alleged Police Detention

Mohammad Junaid takes legal action after alleging unlawful detention linked to his role in the recent protests in India, vowing to continue his activism.

Mohammad Junaid, a 24-year-old law student, has gained prominence in India following his involvement in one of the country’s largest student protests. Born to illiterate farmers in Ghaziabad, he recalls a childhood steeped in the value of education, instilled by parents who viewed knowledge as the key to a better future.

Junaid claims he was unlawfully detained a day before the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest concluded. According to his allegations, police questioned him overnight and released him the next day. His petition to India’s Supreme Court, which is still pending, addresses these claims.

This incident has prompted criticism from various opposition politicians and civil liberties organizations, with CJP leaders accusing the authorities of targeting protest volunteers. The Delhi Police, however, have not provided any comments regarding the situation.

Junaid’s legal battle takes place against a backdrop of a broader crackdown on protests across Delhi and other states, where police have been accused of unlawful detentions. In response to the uproar, the Supreme Court has directed authorities to refrain from taking harsh actions against protesters without criminal records while the matter is under review. The CJP has also stated it may resume protests if charges against demonstrators are not dropped.

Initially, Junaid joined the protest on a whim, packing lightly for what he thought would be a brief visit to Delhi’s Jantar Mantar in June, where students gathered to protest irregularities in a medical entrance exam. However, as the movement evolved into a significant campaign for accountability, he found himself central to the organizing efforts.

Despite not being a leader, Junaid’s dedication was apparent as he coordinated essentials like food, water, and shelter for the continually increasing number of demonstrators. His role turned him into a well-recognized figure among fellow protesters.

During the inaugural night of the protest, when hundreds of students decided to stay, Junaid quickly adapted to the needs of the situation. He began collecting donations for water and meals, eventually organizing sleeping arrangements as exhaustion set in.

As the days went by, the protest thrived with donations pouring in. Junaid recalls the generosity of farmers and local communities, further cementing the spirit of solidarity among the protesters.

Yet, the events of July 20 marked a turning point. Thousands marched towards parliament despite a police ban, only to confront tear gas and baton charges, resulting in mass detentions. Junaid dedicated hours to locating missing students and helping the injured, profoundly impacting him as he witnessed students return frightened and bruised.

Just hours before the conclusion of the protest, Junaid alleges he was detained after visiting a hospital for treatment, where police interrogated him about his activist role while allegedly blindfolded. He claims his family’s home was also raided in a related harassment effort.

The emotional weight of his experiences highlights a stark reality: while religion did not play a role in the initial protests, he began to wonder if his Muslim identity influenced how he was perceived in light of the detention. These thoughts linger as he navigates the complex interplay of activism and identity.

Upon returning home, Junaid’s parents, worried for their son’s safety, voiced their concerns about further protests. Yet, his determination remains steadfast. He views his struggles as a minor sacrifice in a larger quest for justice and plans to return to the frontlines if students protest again.