The Delhi government announced it will cease legal actions against NEET protest participants, barring those with criminal backgrounds. The Delhi government on Thursday announced that it will not pursue any further adverse legal action against people involved in protests over the alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) examination, while making it clear that the relief will not extend to those with criminal antecedents.Students celebrate after the education minister's resignation at Jantar Mantar in Delhi (Sanchit Khanna/Hindustan Times)According to a press release issued by the Delhi government's Home Department, a total of 13 cases were registered by Delhi Police in connection with the NEET protest demonstrations held in the national capital."No adverse legal action will be taken by any of the Police authorities within NCT of Delhi against those persons who have been involved in these protests. The protection, however, shall not extend to persons having criminal antecedents, as mandated in the order of Hon'ble Supreme Court mentioned above," the statement said.The government also directed that where arrests or detentions had already been made in these cases, the review process for releasing those arrested would be undertaken expeditiously. It further said it does not propose to take any further adverse action against individuals involved in the protests and that the matter would be treated as closed without any future proceedings on this account. The order was issued with the approval of the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs.