Delhi High Court to hear challenge to Jantar Mantar protest site closure

A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma agreed to hear the petitions during Monday's proceedings. Counsel representing the petitioners argued that the authorities' failure to designate an alternative protest site amounted to suppression of peaceful dissent.

The court will also hear a separate petition alleging that unidentified individuals infiltrated a weekend protest and subjected participants to harassment. The dual concerns raised before the bench underscore ongoing tensions over protest rights and public order in the national capital.

During Monday's hearing, the bench noted that the Supreme Court was already examining related matters and had directed the Union government to file affidavits. The court indicated it would coordinate its approach with the apex court's proceedings to avoid duplication and ensure comprehensive examination of the issues.

The matter assumes significance given Delhi's history of designating Jantar Mantar as a space for peaceful public protests. The alleged closure has sparked concerns among civil society groups about the availability of venues for legitimate democratic expression in the capital.