The Supreme Court has asked the Centre to reconsider blanket restrictions on Metro services and the Railways in connection with the proposed protest by the CJP at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
“You can’t halt everything,” the Supreme Court told the Centre while addressing the restrictions linked to the demonstration.
The CJP has announced the protest to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of “vote theft”.
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has expressed serious concern over the closure of 57 Metro stations and restrictions on train services, observing that the measures could create difficulties for millions of people travelling from Gurugram, east Delhi, south Delhi and other areas for work.
The court said public transport should not be brought to a complete halt and asked authorities to examine regulated arrangements that would keep services running without affecting security. It also stressed that restrictions must remain proportionate to the prevailing situation and that the movement of road traffic should be maintained.
Solicitor General assured the bench that he would take up the issue with the government and the concerned authorities to ensure that commuters did not face inconvenience.
Court seeks clarity for commuters
During the hearing, the bench was informed that 57 Metro stations had been shut. Chief Justice Surya Kant said the court was particularly concerned about the effect on ordinary commuters, pointing out that many court staff members depend on the Metro even though some lawyers may use private vehicles.
The bench observed that closing Metro stations and similar facilities would inconvenience millions of people and said the matter required consideration. The CJI also directed that commuters should be told where barricades had been placed and which alternative routes were available.
The court further sought clarity on the transport services that would remain operational and the timings during which they would be available. Justice Joymalya Bagchi said the bench had taken note of the curbs on Metro and railway services and emphasised that road transport must continue to remain accessible.
Justice Bagchi said such services could not be completely shut down, while acknowledging that restrictions could be imposed depending on the circumstances.
CJP announces protest at Jantar Mantar
Separately, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has announced a protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, seeking the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of “vote theft”.
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