Assam encounters: State tells Supreme Court that police acting in self-defence justified

The Supreme Court of India addressed the controversial encounters involving the Assam police, asserting that police actions could be justified under self-defense when responding to threats. The court emphasized the need for law enforcement to adhere to established protocols and use force only when necessary. This ruling aims to balance the police's duty to maintain order with the rights of citizens, ensuring accountability for any misuse of power. The decision is seen as crucial in the context of ongoing debates about police conduct in encounter killings, aiming to clarify the legal boundaries of police authority while safeguarding public safety.