The Supreme Court heard an urgent plea challenging extensive restrictions imposed in Delhi ahead of the Cockroach Janata Party’s October 10 protest. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal raised serious concerns about these measures, questioning their impact on democratic freedoms.
Restrictions Ahead of CJP Protest
Kapil Sibal, representing CPI(M) general secretary MA Baby, outlined the multiple restrictions enforced in Delhi. He noted cancellations of trains, closure of 57 metro stations, internet curbs, and denial of hotel accommodations. He expressed dismay, asking the apex court, “What is happening to my country?”
Sibal highlighted the cancellation of major trains including those to New Delhi and Nizamuddin between 4 am and 2 pm, and named Howrah, Shalimar, and Rajdhani Express as cancelled. He described the situation as a “crackdown” that affected trains, metro, ride services like Uber, hotels such as OYO, and stadiums.
SC Bench Questions Jurisdiction and Permissions
The bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymlaya Bagchi and V Mohana questioned why the petitioners had not approached the Delhi High Court first. Sibal responded that a related petition by the Indian Youth Congress was pending but adjourned until Monday.
Justice Bagchi critically noted the absence of a protest organiser, stressing that without permission the gathering could be unlawful. The bench also indicated any judicial intervention must balance the right to protest with public order.
Arguments for Judicial Review of Measures
Senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Gopal Sankaranarayanan insisted the sweeping measures should be scrutinized for proportionality. Singhvi referenced the deployment of 221 CAPF companies, preparations for 10 detention centres, and various restrictions on public movement and train services.
Sankaranarayanan argued that shutting down an entire city was not a solution to handling protests. Advocate Vrinda Grover added that police denied the CJP permission to hold the protest, while the Indian Youth Congress sought permission at a designated site. She warned that heavy barricading could undermine the protest’s efficacy.
Way Forward Suggested by the Court
The Chief Justice proposed that the Delhi High Court could hear the matter later on Friday afternoon. Sibal and other advocates agreed to return with further details and a formal plea filed by an organiser.
