New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine a PIL contending that the Jantar Mantar in the heart of the national capital was no longer a suitable venue for protests as they cause inconvenience to local residents and disrupt essential services.A bench comprising Chief Justice and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued notices to the Centre and others on the plea filed by Satish Chand Kaushik. It asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to obtain instructions from the authorities on the issues raised.Also read: Delhi Police to first examine contents of Zero FIR against Noida woman booked for remarks on PMThe petition seeks an alternative arrangement for holding demonstrations, saying protests at Jantar Mantar create difficulties for local residents and disrupt the supply of essential goods and medical services.During the hearing, the CJI said that the petition raised concerns relating to access and movement in the area."It has been stated in the plea that Jantar Mantar is not a proper site anymore for such protests due to ingress and egress issues. Supply of medical essentials etc. I think this is important... Please take instructions, Mr Solicitor. Issue notice and list this separately," the CJI said.During the proceedings, the counsel for the petitioner also referred to a proposed political march, submitting that "Arvind Kejriwal called a town hall and decided to march to the Prime Minister's residence," and said that "another July 20 incident should be avoided".Also read: 'Apologise to students injured in July 20 protest first’: CJP's Dipke to PM ModiResponding to the submission, the bench declined to comment on the proposed event."They know how to handle it. If they cannot, come to us for mishandling. I am sure they will handle (it)," the CJI said.The matter has been directed to be listed separately.
Supreme Court agrees to examine PIL seeking alternative to Jantar Mantar as protest venue
The Supreme Court will examine a PIL questioning Jantar Mantar's suitability for protests. Notices were issued to the Centre and others regarding the plea. The petition seeks alternative arrangements for demonstrations due to local inconvenience. Protests at Jantar Mantar disrupt essential goods and medical services supply. The court asked the Solicitor General to obtain instructions on these issues.










