New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed authorities not to completely suspend Delhi Metro and railway services ahead of the October 10 protests in the national capital, calling for transport operations to continue in a regulated manner to minimise inconvenience to commuters.
The directions came amid concerns over proposed restrictions affecting 57 Metro stations and the cancellation of trains scheduled to arrive in Delhi. The court stressed that security measures must be proportionate and should not leave the public without essential transport facilities.
The court also directed authorities to give wide publicity to their decisions and advisories so that commuters can plan their journeys in advance.
What Did The Supreme Court Direct On Delhi Metro And Trains?
The Supreme Court asked the Centre to ensure that Metro and railway services were not completely stopped because of the planned demonstrations.
The bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana called for services to operate under suitable regulation, balancing public safety with the needs of commuters.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the court that he would urge the authorities to reconsider the proposed restrictions and allow transport services to continue in a regulated manner. The court also stressed that the arrangements should be communicated widely to avoid unnecessary hardship.
Why Were Delhi Metro Stations And Trains Facing Restrictions?
Authorities had proposed restrictions ahead of the October 10 protest called by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and student organisations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Delhi Police had sought the closure of entry and exit gates at 57 Metro stations, citing concerns about crowd movement towards sensitive locations. Railways had also announced cancellations affecting some services scheduled to arrive at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations.
The proposed measures triggered a legal challenge over their potential impact on commuters and the public’s ability to travel across the capital.
What Does The Supreme Court’s Direction Mean For Commuters?
The court’s intervention calls for a regulated approach rather than a complete suspension of services. However, it does not necessarily mean every station will operate normally or that all cancelled trains will be restored.
Commuters should check official Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) updates and the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) for the latest station restrictions, train status and travel advisories before leaving home.
Authorities have been asked to publicise the arrangements so passengers can make informed travel decisions.
What Is The October 10 Protest About?
The planned demonstration is directed against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protest call comes amid allegations surrounding the revision of electoral rolls, which have been contested.
Delhi Police had denied permission for the proposed gathering, citing concerns over public safety, traffic and law and order. The Supreme Court’s proceedings have focused on balancing the management of the proposed protest with the need to avoid disproportionate disruption to the public.
Further changes to transport arrangements will depend on the directions issued by the authorities and subsequent official advisories.
