- CJI Surya Kant expressed concerns over the closure of metro stations ahead of the CJP's protest on October 10.
- Responding to CJI's concerns, SG Tushar Mehta said that he will seek review of the curbs with the government.
- "One should not use hammer to kill fly," the CJI said while asking the authorities to review severe curbs.
CJP Jantar Mantar Protest: The Supreme Court on Friday raised concerns over the planned closure of metro stations ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party's protest on October 10, saying that the restrictions can impact thousands of commuters who depend on the Metro for their travel.
"Everybody does not have a car. You cannot bring everything to a halt and leave people without any transport facility," the CJI said, while hearing a batch of petitions challenging the curbs ahead of the CJP protest.
A bench headed by CJI Surya Kant further asked the authorities to "exercise caution", directing them to maintain a free flow of traffic during the day. "One should not use hammer to kill fly," the CJI said during the hearing.
Responding to the apex court's concerns, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that he will consult the government over the closure of metro stations and cancellation of Delhi-bound trains. He said that the planned curbs can be regulated and "periodically reviewed" as per the situation during the agitation.
'Restrictions Will Trouble Residents'
While hearing the pleas, Justice Joymalya Bagchi pointed out that Sibal himself was not the organiser, adding that the protest would be declared unlawful if permission was not sought. However, Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan pointed out that the restrictions will also affect the daily commuters.
The apex court stated that along with the restrictions, the scale of gathering will also have to be considered."To strike a balance, we need two things: citizens before us who want their basic rights, and the group that wants to protest. We do not have the latter before us," the apex court pointed out.
Singhvi Questions Strict Measures
Apart from this, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi also pointed out that unprecedented measures were taken by Delhi police ahead of the protest. "221 CAPF companies...10 detention centres being prepared...trains to be regulated...OYO hotels asked to not take fresh bookings...actions against YouTubers...media asked to carry IDs...Delhi police issuing advisory not to participate in protest.." Singhvi said, reported Live Law.
(Updates to follow)