SC Sunday Hearing Reflects Serious Situation: Ashok Gehlot
Former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot says Supreme Court's Sunday hearing highlights the gravity of the Delhi protest situation and barricading.
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister and prominent Congress leader Ashok Gehlot has remarked that the Supreme Court's decision to hold a hearing on a Sunday regarding the ongoing Delhi protests is a clear indicator of the gravity of the current situation in the country.
Gehlot Slams Delhi Barricading and Restrictions
Speaking on the developments, Gehlot highlighted the difficulties faced by citizens due to heavy security measures in the national capital. He noted that Delhi has been heavily barricaded, creating significant hurdles for travelers arriving from various parts of India. According to the former CM, these restrictions have led to instances of mistreatment of people attempting to navigate the city.
Gehlot further urged the government to adopt a more collaborative approach by engaging in dialogue with the Opposition. He emphasized the need to address mounting concerns regarding alleged electoral irregularities to ensure stability.
Legal Community Concerns Over Mistreatment
The legal fraternity has also voiced significant concerns regarding the recent crackdown. Devvrat, President of the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA), revealed that a writ petition has been filed following the alleged mistreatment of advocates near the apex court premises.
The association pointed out several grievances, including:
- Security Restrictions: The imposition of heavy barricades that hindered movement.
- Communication Failures: The failure to communicate the imposition of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to either the Bar or the Bench.
- Internet Shutdowns: The unexpected suspension of internet services, which contradicted assurances that hearings would be conducted virtually.
Advocate Gaurav Yadav echoed these sentiments, stressing that internet services should only be suspended when absolutely necessary and that all barricades must be removed to ensure the city functions normally.
Supreme Court Directs Restoration of Movement
In a significant intervention, a bench comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana addressed a batch of petitions challenging the government crackdown and the detention of demonstrators by Delhi Police and paramilitary forces. The court's ruling focused on the fundamental right to peaceful movement and unhindered access to justice.
The bench issued several critical directions to the authorities:
- Lift Prohibitory Orders: Authorities were directed to immediately lift the prohibitory orders under Section 163 BNSS imposed around the Supreme Court complex.
- Ensure Access to Justice: The court emphasized that the restrictions must not create apprehension regarding ingress and egress to the apex court.
- Prevent Illegal Detention: The bench explicitly stated there should be no illegal detention of peaceful, unarmed assemblages of people beyond the designated zones.
- Restore Transport: The court directed the restoration of smooth movement for railway, metro, and general traffic services across the national capital.
The court's intervention comes amidst a contempt plea alleging willful disobedience of previous court orders, underscoring the tension between security measures and the constitutional rights of citizens.