SC Seeks Centre’s Reply on Jantar Mantar Protest Ban
Plea challenges withdrawal of Delhi’s prominent protest venue as Ramlila Maidan, Burari and Shahdara grounds are designated for demonstrations
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 15th Oct: The Supreme Court on Thursday sought responses from the Centre and Delhi Police on a petition challenging the decision to remove Jantar Mantar from the list of designated protest sites in the national capital, bringing renewed attention to access to public spaces for demonstrations.
A bench of the top court issued notices to the authorities, asking them to submit their replies. The court indicated that it would consider the matter after examining their responses.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, told the court that the decision to withdraw Jantar Mantar’s designated status had been taken on the recommendation of a committee.
The development follows a Delhi Police order dated October 11 that identified Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground in East Delhi as venues for protests. The order stated that separate standard operating procedures (SOPs) governing demonstrations at these locations would be issued.
Three Alternative Protest Sites Identified
The newly designated venues fall under different administrative arrangements. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi manages bookings for Ramlila Maidan, while Burari Ground and CBD Ground in Shahdara fall under the Delhi Development Authority’s jurisdiction.
Rules governing the allocation of DDA grounds for political activities are still being formulated. While Ramlila Maidan has hosted political demonstrations and sit-ins for decades, Burari and CBD grounds have not regularly served as prominent venues for such events in recent years.
The practical arrangements for holding protests at the newly designated sites, including the proposed SOPs, are expected to shape how demonstrations are organised in the capital.
Jantar Mantar’s Role in Public Protests
Located in central Delhi, Jantar Mantar has long been associated with demonstrations on political, social and public-interest issues. Its removal from the list of designated protest sites has prompted questions about where citizens and organisations can gather to raise grievances.
The issue has drawn attention amid recent demonstrations concerning alleged examination paper leaks and claims of “vote chori”, or electoral fraud.
The Supreme Court’s notice marks an initial step in examining the challenge to the denotification decision. The Centre and Delhi Police are expected to present their positions before the court considers the matter further.
