NEW DELHI, NOV 3: The Supreme Court declared on Tuesday that designated protest sites cannot be occupied indefinitely, observing that public spaces must remain accessible to all sections of society, including farmers and traders.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V Mohana maintained the observation while hearing a batch of petitions, including one filed by the Kirana Committee Delhi regarding business losses caused by ongoing protests at Ramlila Maidan.
Chief Justice Surya Kant asserted that while every citizen retains the right to protest, such demonstrations must be permitted for a designated period rather than continuing without limit. The top court sought responses from the Central Government and directed the traders’ bodies to array the protest organizers as parties to the petition.
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the traders, maintained that nearby commercial activities have been severely affected, noting that business in areas surrounding the venue and central market locations has come to a standstill. The Bench affirmed that no final determination can be made without hearing all protesting organizations involved.
The court continues to hear related petitions addressing public convenience, police measures, and regional access during the ongoing demonstrations.
