Delhi High Court Allows Urgent Hearing on Protest Site Guidelines

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday allowed the urgent listing of petitions filed by lawyers’ and traders’ associations seeking the implementation of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for designated protest sites in the national capital. The petitioners claimed that barricades and restrictions imposed during demonstrations had resulted in business losses amounting to Rs 2,000 crore.

Senior advocate Sacchin Puri, appearing for the petitioners, argued that they were seeking the implementation of existing guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court. He emphasised that the petitions aimed to protect basic rights and ensure that the established procedures for conducting protests were followed.

Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma initially pointed out that the Supreme Court was already hearing petitions related to the ongoing protests. However, he subsequently did not oppose the Delhi High Court hearing the matters on Tuesday.

The High Court is also expected to consider a petition filed by National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) president Vinod Jakhar. The plea seeks an investigation into alleged attacks on protesters by individuals described as “anti-social elements” at Jantar Mantar on October 10.

The petitions come amid demonstrations by opposition leaders, student groups and political organisations in Central and South Delhi. The protesters have been demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Delhi Police imposed restrictions on demonstrations and detained several protesters, including students, opposition leaders and lawyers.

Following the closure of Jantar Mantar as a designated protest site, the Delhi Police identified Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground as alternative venues. However, the petitioners raised concerns over the absence of detailed guidelines governing protests at these locations.

The matter highlights the challenge of balancing the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and free speech with public order, traffic management and the interests of local businesses.