Supreme Court to hear all parties in Delhi Metro shutdown contempt plea

The Supreme Court on Sunday convened a special sitting to hear arguments on a contempt plea against authorities for allegedly violating judicial directions on the scope of transport restrictions during the Chief Justice of India's protest in Delhi. A bench comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana stated it would provide a platform for all parties and ensure minimal disruption to citizens, emphasising that the apex court remains committed to serving the nation. "We understand your grievances regarding yesterday's events. We are not dismissing what transpired," the bench remarked. The plea, filed by advocate Shailendra Mani Tripathi, names the Union Home Secretary, Delhi Police Commissioner, and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation chairperson as respondents, challenging the complete suspension of metro and train services across the capital. Concurrently, the court is also hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy seeking the release of detained political leaders. The bench's decision to hear all stakeholders reflects efforts to balance the concerns of legal practitioners, commuters, and civil liberties while addressing the alleged breach of court orders regarding the implementation and scope of service restrictions.