A bench led by CJI Surya Kant tags the plea with a pending case on protest venues while asking how it can issue the direction sought.
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea flagging the disruption of essential services during protests and strikes, and directed that it be tagged with a pending case on venues for protests, rallies and gatherings. The bench comprised Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana.
The petitioner's counsel told the Court that essential services are disrupted when protests are underway. Bar & Bench quotes counsel as saying, "We do not know who is a protester and who is not. Ingress and egress are completely disturbed." LiveLaw identifies the counsel as Advocate V Elanchezhiyan and reports his submission that the issue arises across the country.
CJI Kant asked, "But tell us, how can we issue a direction of this nature? We will hear the matter." Bar & Bench quotes him as noting that a case on venues for protests, rallies and similar gatherings is already pending and saying the petition should be tagged with it.
The pending matter concerns the use of Delhi's Jantar Mantar as a protest site. Bar & Bench reports that the plea states Jantar Mantar is no longer a suitable venue because of safety and logistical concerns, and seeks directions to designate an alternative venue. When it was heard on August 3, the Court asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to take instructions on the issue.
LiveLaw reports that the writ petition was filed on July 29, seemingly in the backdrop of student protests.
