Should Jantar Mantar remain Delhi's protest hub? SC agrees to hear plea
The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine a PIL that said Jantar Mantar in central Delhi was no longer a suitable venue for protests
The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine a PIL that said Jantar Mantar in central Delhi was no longer a suitable venue for protests because they cause inconvenience to local residents and disrupt essential services. A bench comprising the Chief Justice and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued notices to the Centre and others on the plea filed by Satish Chand Kaushik. The court also asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to obtain instructions from the authorities on the issues raised.
Read Full Story The petition sought an alternative arrangement for demonstrations, arguing that protests at Jantar Mantar create difficulties for residents and affect the supply of essential goods and medical services. During the hearing, the Chief Justice said the plea raised concerns related to access and movement in the area. "It has been stated in the plea that Jantar Mantar is not a proper site anymore for such protests due to ingress and egress issues.
Supply of medical essentials etc. I think this is important... Please take instructions, Mr Solicitor. Issue notice and list this separately," the Chief Justice said. During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel also referred to a proposed political march, saying, "Arvind Kejriwal called a town hall and decided to march to the Prime Minister's residence," and added that "another July 20 incident should be avoided." The bench, however, declined to comment on the proposed event. "They know how to handle it.
If they cannot, come to us for mishandling. I am sure they will handle (it)," the Chief Justice said. The matter has been directed to be listed separately. With notices issued, and the Centre asked to respond, the court will now separately hear the plea seeking an alternative to Jantar Mantar for protests over concerns about access, movement and essential services in the area. Ends
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