Delhi HC: E20 Ethanol Protest at Jantar Mantar Rejected
Delhi High Court hears petition after authorities reject E20 ethanol blending policy protest at Jantar Mantar citing law and order concerns.
The Delhi High Court has been informed that authorities have denied permission for a planned protest against the E20 ethanol blending policy at Jantar Mantar. The decision to reject the demonstration was reportedly based on concerns regarding the prevailing law-and-order situation in the area.
Legal Challenge Against Rejection
Justice Amit Mahajan was presiding over a writ petition filed by Robin Michael and another individual. The petitioners are challenging the administrative decision that refused their request to hold a peaceful demonstration against the government's E20 ethanol blending policy.
The petitioners have moved the court to quash the administrative decision and are seeking a formal direction to the authorities. They requested permission to hold the proposed demonstration at Jantar Mantar on October 2, 2026, between 10 am and 5 pm, under reasonable safety parameters and participant limits.
Government Stance on Law and Order
Representing the Union of India, Standing Counsel Amit Tiwari informed the court that the request had already been turned down. The rejection was made after a thorough assessment of the potential impact on the law-and-order situation in the capital.
The Centre further clarified to the court that the formal rejection order had already been communicated to the petitioners via the email address they had provided in their original application.
Next Hearing Scheduled
In response to the court's proceedings, Advocate Vijay Lakshmi, representing the petitioners, requested additional time to file a formal application specifically challenging the rejection order.
Following this request, the court has scheduled the next hearing for the matter on October 27, 2026.