Delhi Police face legal challenge over non-disclosure of protest curb orders

A legal challenge has been mounted against Delhi Police over the accessibility of prohibitory orders issued in connection with recent protest-related detentions in the capital. The petition filed in the Supreme Court contends that authorities "mischievously" refrained from uploading the orders to their official website, despite being required to do so.

Delhi Police have maintained that they fulfilled their obligation to inform the public through alternative means. The force claims that hoardings were erected at strategic locations and public announcements were made to alert residents about the imposed restrictions. These measures, police argue, adequately communicated the nature and scope of the curbs to affected parties.

The discrepancy highlights a broader debate over police transparency and public access to official orders. Prohibitory orders, typically issued under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, restrict assembly and public gatherings in specified areas. Making such orders readily available online is seen as essential for ensuring citizens are aware of their legal obligations.

The petition's allegations suggest that the non-availability of orders on official platforms could have contributed to confusion during the detentions. Legal experts have noted that digital accessibility of such orders is crucial for establishing clear notification and ensuring administrative procedure is followed transparently.

The matter is expected to be examined by the court, which will likely consider whether the police's alternative notification methods were adequate substitutes for official online disclosure.