New Delhi: Delhi Police has identified more than 2,500 individuals with suspected criminal backgrounds at and around Jantar Mantar using AI-powered facial recognition technology, as security agencies intensify surveillance during the ongoing nationwide protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.
The large-scale surveillance operation, carried out over the past three days, comes amid concerns that anti-social elements may attempt to exploit the student-led demonstrations. Authorities say the move is aimed at maintaining law and order without disrupting peaceful protests.
AI-Powered Surveillance Tightens Security Net
According to senior police officials, the suspects were detected through the Facial Recognition System (FRS) and AI-enabled video analytics installed across strategic locations around Jantar Mantar. The system scans faces in real time and compares them with Delhi Police’s database of wanted criminals, history-sheeters and repeat offenders.
Police sources said the surveillance exercise has generated alerts for over 2,500 individuals, whose identities are now being verified. Investigators are examining whether any of those flagged were involved in criminal activities or pose a potential threat to public safety.
#BreakingNews | Delhi NEET Protest Probe BIG Update: 2,500+ protesters have criminal backgrounds and serious cases registered against them
As per Delhi Police the miscreants used knives during stir@SimranBabbar_05 shares more details #CJP #SonamWangchuk #SauravDas… pic.twitter.com/bXMfbVqU74
— News18 (@CNNnews18) July 25, 2026
Authorities clarified that the technology is intended to identify known offenders and is not meant to monitor ordinary protesters participating in the demonstrations.
Intelligence Inputs Raise Security Concerns
Security agencies have reportedly received intelligence suggesting that several people with criminal antecedents had entered the protest zone. Some inputs also indicated that a few individuals were allegedly carrying sharp-edged weapons, prompting police to strengthen surveillance and deploy additional personnel.
Officials said dedicated teams have been tasked with tracking those identified through the AI system, and legal action will be initiated wherever evidence of unlawful activity is established.
Four Mobile Facial Recognition Units Deployed
To strengthen real-time monitoring, Delhi Police has stationed four mobile Facial Recognition System units around Jantar Mantar. Equipped with high-resolution 360-degree cameras, the units continuously scan crowds and instantly match facial images with police records.
Officials said the technology has previously been deployed during major public events, festivals and high-security gatherings to detect wanted persons and prevent security breaches.
Jantar Mantar Remains the Epicentre of NEET Agitation
Jantar Mantar has emerged as the focal point of the nationwide movement demanding accountability over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 examination irregularities. Thousands of students, youth activists and supporters have gathered at the site over the past several weeks, seeking comprehensive reforms in the examination system and greater transparency in the functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA).
The protests intensified political pressure on the Centre and culminated in the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday.
Massive Security Deployment Across Central Delhi
With large crowds continuing to assemble, Delhi Police has deployed nearly 3,000 personnel across central Delhi to ensure public safety and prevent any disruption.
Officials said multiple FIRs have already been registered in connection with incidents of violence and vandalism reported during earlier phases of the agitation. CCTV footage, drone imagery, social media videos and facial recognition data are being analysed to identify those responsible.
Privacy Debate Reignites
The deployment of AI-enabled facial recognition at a public protest has also triggered fresh concerns over privacy and civil liberties.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the Delhi High Court has questioned the legality of using facial recognition technology at protest sites, arguing that India does not yet have a dedicated legal framework governing such surveillance. Delhi Police, however, maintains that the system is used exclusively for identifying individuals already listed in criminal databases and is essential for ensuring public safety during large public gatherings.
Vigil to Continue
With the nationwide agitation showing little sign of slowing, authorities have indicated that AI-assisted surveillance, enhanced monitoring and heavy security deployment will remain in place at Jantar Mantar in the coming days.
Police have appealed to protesters to maintain peace, assuring that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the demonstrations or exploit the situation for criminal activities.
