‘Why should protests be held in city centre?’ Delhi HC questions use of Jantar Mantar as protest site
The Delhi High Court has questioned the suitability of Jantar Mantar as a protest site, citing public inconvenience and security concerns. The court has directed police to decide on a pending protest application by the weekend.
Why it matters
This case touches on the balance between the fundamental right to protest and the state's duty to maintain public order and infrastructure.
The Delhi High Court on Friday (August 7, 2026) raised concerns over the continued use of Jantar Mantar as the designated venue for protests and demonstrations in Delhi, with Justice Amit Mahajan questioning whether public agitations should be held in the middle of the capital.
“According to me, these things should not happen in the city,” Justice Mahajan said in oral remarks. “But it is the government’s call. Why should the city be put to ransom unnecessarily?”
The court was hearing a petition by the All India Dalit Christian Rights Protection Committee seeking a direction to the Delhi Police to decide on its request for permission to hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar on August 10 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
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