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New Delhi : The Supreme Court remained open on Sunday to hear matters concerning the detention of individuals during protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Observing this, the Court remarked that it is always at the service of the nation. A contempt petition is being heard regarding the closure of metro stations and the cancellation of trains during protests in the national capital, New Delhi, and surrounding areas on Saturday. According to a Live Law report, the Court is hearing a petition filed by Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy, which challenges the detention of political leaders.
During the hearing on the detention of people and the imposition of restrictions amidst protests in Delhi, the Supreme Court stated that its concern regarding the safety of life and liberty extends equally to police officers, lawyers, and ordinary citizens. Justice Joymalya Bagchi remarked, “An individual’s identity does not matter to the Court—whether they are a police officer, a lawyer, or an ordinary citizen. The Court’s stance and concern regarding the protection of life and liberty are equally sensitive. Understood? So, do not worry.”
Justice Bagchi stated that the Court understands the concerns raised regarding the scale of the action taken and wishes to hear the respondents’ side. However, the judge also informed the counsel that police officers do not possess any independent authority—distinct from the government’s stance—regarding the maintenance of law and order, and asked the counsel to assist the Solicitor General.
Senior Advocate Sanjay Hegde appeared on behalf of the petitioners before the bench comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V. Mohana. He argued that access to justice also implies access to lawyers. He expressed concern that lawyers were prevented from meeting their clients at police stations during Saturday’s protests.
Hegde said, “This Court functions through its Advocates-on-Record. Access to justice also implies access to lawyers. If lawyers are prevented from performing their duties, it directly affects the dignity of this Court.”
Sanjay Hegde informed the Supreme Court that lawyers who visited the Sanjay Colony police station in Maidan Garhi on Saturday were detained for hours and allegedly beaten. Hegde stated, “Some of them have worked with me. Police personnel threatened the lawyers with FIRs.” Another lawyer informed the Court that internet services were unavailable throughout the day on Saturday.
Report : Abhijit Tushar Bhatt (Political Editor)
