Cockroach Janta Party: Delhi HC Refuses Rs 50 Crore Compensation Plea
Delhi High Court refuses to order Cockroach Janta Party to pay Rs 50 crore compensation, directing petitioner to approach the Supreme Court.
The Delhi High Court has declined to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought to compel the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) to deposit Rs 50 crore as interim compensation for the disruption and inconvenience allegedly caused to the residents of the national capital during the party's protests.
The Demand for Compensation
The petition, filed by advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini, argued that the protests organized by the Cockroach Janta Party had severely impacted the daily lives of Delhiites. The plea highlighted that the disruptions had created significant hurdles for various sections of society, including:
- Commuters struggling with traffic and transit
- Office-goers facing delays
- Schoolchildren unable to reach their institutions
- Local traders experiencing business losses
Beyond the immediate demand for a Rs 50 crore deposit, Saini requested the court to establish a high-powered committee. This committee would have been tasked with assessing individual claims and determining the exact amount of compensation owed to affected citizens. Additionally, the petitioner sought a court order for authorities to initiate formal proceedings for compensation and create a dedicated fund for interim relief.
The Court's Stand on Judicial Discipline
A Division Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma heard the matter on Wednesday. During the proceedings, the court emphasized the importance of judicial hierarchy and consistency.
The bench noted that the Supreme Court of India is already dealing with similar issues. This point was further reinforced by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who informed the High Court that the apex court was already seized of related matters.
“The judicial discipline warrants that, in such an eventuality, this court must stay its hands away from the proceedings and should not pass conflicting orders,” the bench observed.
Final Verdict
Citing the need to avoid any potential conflict with orders that might be issued by the Supreme Court, the Delhi High Court disposed of the PIL. The court directed advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini to approach the Supreme Court if he wishes to pursue the relief sought against the Cockroach Janta Party.