‘Amit Shah gave firing order’ vs ‘No shots fired’: Rahul Gandhi, Centre in war of words as anti-paper leak bill passed

A heated exchange erupted in India's Parliament between opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and the government over allegations of police brutality during a student protest in Delhi. Gandhi demanded the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of ordering the use of pellet guns on students marching to Parliament on July 20.

The government vehemently denied Gandhi's claims. Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that no bullets were fired and only tear gas was used. He countered Gandhi's accusation by saying, “When there were no bullets fired, the question of authorising it does not arise, and the directive to open fire is given by the magistrate, not a minister.” Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju called Gandhi's allegations a "serious allegation and a breach of his (Shah's) privilege" and demanded an apology.

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Jab goli chali hi nahi, toh aadesh dene ka sawal hi paida nahi hota; aur aadesh dene ka adhikar magistrate ke pass rahta hai, mantri ke pas nahi

This confrontation took place during the debate and passage of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. The bill, which aims to impose stricter punishments and ensure time-bound trials for those accused of exam paper leaks, was passed in a voice vote after a lengthy debate. The government asserted that Gandhi's charges were baseless and demanded he retract his statements. The incident highlights ongoing political tensions and differing narratives surrounding law enforcement actions during protests.

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It is a serious allegation and a breach of his (Shah's) privilege. Rahul Gandhi must apologise and take back your words. On what basis could you level this allegation? How did you know?