The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to ensure that railway and metro services remain operational amid security concerns surrounding a planned protest in the national capital. The court emphasised that preventive measures taken to maintain law and order should not cause unnecessary inconvenience to commuters or disrupt essential public transport.
The matter came up in connection with a protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar on October 10. The party had called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Ahead of the proposed demonstration, authorities imposed restrictions at several Delhi Metro stations and introduced security measures affecting passenger movement around major railway stations. These steps raised concerns about the impact on daily commuters, office-goers and passengers travelling to and from the capital.
During the hearing, the court underscored the importance of balancing security requirements with public convenience. It indicated that authorities could introduce appropriate safeguards to manage crowds and prevent disturbances, but such arrangements should not result in an unnecessary suspension of essential transport services.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the bench that the authorities would be asked to facilitate the functioning of metro and railway services while maintaining necessary security arrangements. The court also emphasised the need for a coordinated approach among the agencies responsible for transport operations, traffic management and public safety.
The restrictions were introduced amid concerns over the potential gathering of protesters in central Delhi. The proposed demonstration focused on allegations concerning the electoral-roll revision process, an issue that has generated political debate over voter participation and electoral transparency.
The court’s intervention highlighted the need for proportionate restrictions during public demonstrations. While authorities are empowered to take preventive action when security risks arise, measures affecting public movement must also take into account the daily requirements of residents and visitors.
The proceedings have brought renewed attention to the challenges of managing large demonstrations in a densely populated city such as Delhi. Ensuring public safety while allowing essential services to function remains a key consideration for authorities handling protests and other major gatherings.
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