The Supreme Court of India has agreed to review a petition concerning the interruption of essential services during public protests and strikes. The Bench, presided over by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, has decided to consolidate this plea with an ongoing case that examines the appropriate venues for demonstrations and public gatherings.
During the proceedings on Monday, the petitioner’s counsel expressed concerns about the significant disruption caused by protests. “When protests are underway, essential services are disrupted. We do not know who is a protester and who is not. Ingress and egress are completely disturbed,” stated the counsel.
CJI Surya Kant acknowledged the petition by stating, “There is already a case pending before us concerning venues for protests, rallies, and similar gatherings. Let this petition be tagged with that matter. But tell us, how can we issue a direction of this nature? We will hear the matter.”
This case is linked to a previously filed petition regarding the use of New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar as a protest site. The earlier plea argued that Jantar Mantar is no longer suitable for public demonstrations due to concerns over safety and logistics. This petition emerged amidst the backdrop of student protests initiated in June by the online group Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The protests called for the resignation of the then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following a series of examination paper leaks, culminating in a “Sansad Chalo” march towards Parliament on July 20.
The petitioners have requested the Supreme Court to designate an alternative location for such protests. During a hearing on August 3, the Court directed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to provide feedback from the government on this issue.
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The Supreme Court has also sought the perspective of the Central Government and the Delhi Government on the matter, as the continued suitability of Jantar Mantar as a protest venue remains in question.
