New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the continued occupation of a designated protest site during the festive season, observing that demonstrations cannot be allowed to occupy public spaces indefinitely. The remarks came while the court was hearing a plea by traders’ organisations alleging business losses due to an ongoing protest against the Chief Election Commissioner at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana sought responses from the Centre and other parties on the traders’ plea.
“You can’t occupy a site at all times. Where will farmers, journalists, etc., go? Everyone has the right to protest. Designated time must be given for designated period,” the Chief Justice observed.
Why Have Delhi Traders Approached The Supreme Court?
The Kirana Committee Delhi has alleged that the protest at Ramlila Maidan has affected businesses in the surrounding areas, particularly during the festive season.
Appearing for the traders, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi told the court that around 50 lakh people live in areas near the protest site and claimed that shops were shut and business activity in Connaught Place had come to a standstill.
The Bench, however, said the traders’ organisations would have to make the groups organising the protest parties to their plea. It observed that the court could not decide the issues without hearing the protesting organisations.
What Other Issues Is The Supreme Court Hearing?
The traders’ petition is part of a batch of pleas raising several issues linked to the protests, including alleged mass detentions, police brutality, the closure of Metro stations and internet shutdowns.
The court is also examining the grievances raised in these petitions as it seeks responses from the concerned authorities.
The hearing was underway when the matter was reported. The Supreme Court has not yet passed a final order on the traders’ demand to halt the protest.
