Right to Peaceful Protest Guaranteed; SC Calls for Uniform Nationwide SOPs
Addressing concerns over violence on both sides, the bench stated that every individual life holds equal value.
The Supreme Court emphasized on Monday that the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally guaranteed and cannot be denied under any pretext. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana asserted that an ongoing agitation does not justify police excesses or lathi charges.
The apex court was hearing pleas alleging heavy-handed police action against students protesting across the country over NEET paper leaks and examination irregularities. The court agreed to list all related petitions together for Tuesday, including a separate plea filed by families of police personnel who suffered injuries during recent clashes.
Addressing concerns over violence on both sides, the bench stated that every individual life holds equal value. The Chief Justice called for a clear, uniform nationwide protocol to handle demonstrations, urging authorities to provide designated spaces for protests without imposing unnecessary restrictions. He added that anti-social elements should be dealt with strictly through legal channels.
During the brief hearing, lawyers highlighted instances of severe force, including claims of security forces using weapons during demonstrations in Bihar. Representing the central government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the court of impartial assistance in resolving the matter.
The observations follow intense student agitations that previously led to clashes with security forces during a march to Parliament. The top court reiterated that democratic participation demands self-discipline from citizens and proportionate restraint from law enforcement.