The Supreme Court on Friday raised concerns over the Delhi Police’s decision to shut 57 Metro stations ahead of the CJP’s proposed rally in the national capital on Saturday, observing that such a move would adversely affect the rights of ordinary commuters.
A bench headed by the Chief Justice stressed that restrictions imposed to maintain law and order must be proportionate and should not cause undue hardship to the general public. The court directed authorities to ensure there is no complete stoppage of Metro services and asked them to widely publicize any regulated transport arrangements to minimize inconvenience.
The court also asked Delhi authorities to issue a traffic advisory for road users.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, assured the bench that Metro services would be allowed to operate in a regulated manner. He also informed the court that the government would consider providing an alternative protest venue instead of Jantar Mantar.
During the hearing, senior advocates Kapil Sibal, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Prashant Bhushan, Vrinda Grover and others challenged the restrictions imposed ahead of the rally, arguing that the measures were excessive and infringed upon citizens’ rights.
The petitioners highlighted concerns over Metro station closures, train cancellations, movement restrictions, border checks and alleged directions to hotels and resident welfare associations that could hinder travel and participation in the protest.
The Supreme Court reiterated that while citizens have a fundamental right to protest, authorities must strike a balance between that right and the public’s access to essential services. The bench indicated that protests could be regulated through measures such as limiting participant numbers and ensuring peaceful conduct, but stressed that highways should not be blocked.
The court asked the petitioners to place the actual police orders imposing the restrictions on record before it examines the legality and extent of the measures further.
