India, July 29 -- Hearing allegations of police brutality, the court sought preservation of evidence while protecting students

The Supreme Court on Tuesday restrained States from taking any coercive action against protesters in the recent student-led agitation and directed them to release those under 18 on the condition that none should have any criminal antecedents.

"All States are hereby instructed to release children under the age of 18, who have been reported to be arrested or detained in connection with the ongoing protests and who do not possess any criminal antecedents," a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant directed. It said if necessary, these children shall be released upon the execution of a simple bond by thems...