Jantar Mantar no longer an ideal protest venue? SC hears PIL for alternative site
The Supreme Court of India is reviewing a PIL that seeks to move protests away from Jantar Mantar, citing disruptions to local residents and essential services. The court has issued notices to the government while declining to intervene in specific ongoing protest incidents.
Why it matters
The case addresses the tension between the fundamental right to protest and the maintenance of public order and civic convenience in urban centers.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking an alternative protest venue in Delhi, with the petitioner arguing that Jantar Mantar is no longer suitable for demonstrations because they inconvenience local residents and disrupt essential services.A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued notices to the Centre and other authorities and asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to seek instructions on the issues raised.The PIL, filed by Satish Chand Kaushik, contends that protests at Jantar Mantar create problems for local residents by affecting access, movement and the supply of essential goods and medical services.During the hearing, the Chief Justice said the plea raised important concerns."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.
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