Contempt plea filed against Delhi officials over metro, rail restrictions

A contempt of court petition has been filed in the Supreme Court against senior Delhi officials over restrictions imposed on the metro rail network and railway services on Saturday. The curbs were put in place as authorities managed a protest by a political outfit at Jantar Mantar against Election Commission official Gyanesh Kumar and related administrative proceedings.

The home secretary and Delhi Police commissioner have been named respondents in the petition, which challenges the proportionality and necessity of the transport restrictions during the demonstration. The plea argues that such sweeping measures affecting millions of commuters require specific justification and adherence to established guidelines.

The restrictions came as Delhi witnessed the political gathering amid broader administrative activity. The petition seeks clarification on the legal basis for imposing such citywide transport curbs and raises questions about whether adequate safeguards were followed before implementing the measures.

The Supreme Court will examine whether the restrictions were warranted and if proper procedures were observed by law enforcement authorities. The case highlights ongoing tensions between public order management and citizens' rights to mobility and freedom of movement in the national capital.