Supreme Court to examine plea on regulating protests near judicial complexes

The Supreme Court on Thursday said it would examine a plea seeking to establish a regulatory framework for protests and processions in the vicinity of the apex court and other judicial complexes across the country. While agreeing to consider the petition, the court asserted that no one can attempt to intimidate or pressure the judiciary.

The petition has been filed in the wake of an October 12 demonstration by opposition leaders and their supporters who marched towards the Supreme Court to voice concerns over alleged electoral irregularities and the functioning of the Election Commission of India. The march, which included Congress leader Rahul Gandhi among other opposition figures, raised questions about managing large-scale demonstrations in sensitive judicial areas.

The court's decision to examine the plea reflects growing concerns about maintaining order and security around judicial complexes while balancing the right to protest and democratic expression. The move comes as courts across India continue to grapple with the challenge of facilitating legitimate demonstrations while protecting the functioning of judicial institutions.

A specific timeline for the court to hear arguments on the regulatory framework has not yet been announced. The outcome of the examination could establish precedents for how future protests near court complexes are managed across the country.