Politics · India Bureau
Delhi Police chief argues Jantar Mantar is thoroughfare, not protest venue
In a Supreme Court affidavit, Delhi's police commissioner contends that citizens have no inherent right to demonstrate at specific locations and authorities retain discretion to designate alternative protest sites.
LSN India ·
Delhi Police Commissioner argued before the Supreme Court that Jantar Mantar should be treated as a public road rather than a designated protest site, asserting that the state retains authority to direct demonstrations to alternative venues.
In an affidavit submitted to the court, the police chief maintained that no individual or group can claim an exclusive right to stage protests at any particular location. The submission underscores the administration's position that venue selection for public demonstrations falls within the purview of state authorities rather than protesters.
The police commissioner's assertion challenges the longstanding practice of political activists and civil society groups utilizing Jantar Mantar as a focal point for demonstrations and agitations in the capital. The submission reflects ongoing tensions between protest organizers and municipal authorities regarding the regulation of public assemblies in Delhi.
The affidavit was filed as part of proceedings before the apex court concerning protest regulations and the state's regulatory powers over public demonstrations. The argument represents the police's legal position that authorities can redirect demonstrations to designated protest sites while maintaining public order and traffic flow.