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New Delhi : The central government’s decision to remove Jantar Mantar a primary hub for protests in the national capital, Delhi from the list of designated protest sites has been challenged in the Supreme Court. During the hearing of this petition on Thursday, the Supreme Court issued notices to the central government and the Delhi Police, seeking a clarification of their position.
Recently, the Delhi Police issued an order designating Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground (Shahdara) as the authorized venues for protests, effectively replacing Jantar Mantar.
Following this, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court challenging the central government’s decision to exclude Jantar Mantar from the list of approved protest sites.
During the hearing on Thursday, the Supreme Court remarked, “We are issuing notices to the central government and the Delhi Police, seeking their response. Let them provide an answer. If their response is not satisfactory, the law will take its course.”
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing on behalf of the central government, stated that the decision to remove Jantar Mantar from the list of protest sites was based on the recommendation of a committee.
It is worth noting that Jantar Mantar, located in the heart of the national capital, is the most prominent site for public demonstrations. In July, it served as the venue for sustained protests over the NEET paper leak. More recently, the opposition and the organization CJP planned to hold protests there regarding allegations of ‘vote theft’; however, due to strict restrictions imposed by the police, they were denied permission to stage the demonstrations.
Report : Abhijit Tushar Bhatt (Political Editor)
