Delhi High Court questions use of Jantar Mantar as protest site

The Delhi High Court heard a petition filed by the All India Dalit Christian Rights Protection Committee, which requested a directive for the Delhi Police to grant permission for a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar on August 10. During the proceedings, Justice Amit Mahajan questioned why the government allows the site to function as a hub for demonstrations, suggesting that such activities disrupt the city and its residents. The court emphasized that the responsibility for maintaining law and order and deciding on protest locations lies with the government and police.

The remarks prompted reactions from various groups, including the Cockroach Janta Party, which has previously held long-term protests at the site and expressed opposition to losing access to the location. While the court questioned the suitability of Jantar Mantar, it acknowledged that the final decision regarding the regulation of public spaces remains with the executive branch. The Delhi Police has been tasked with providing clarity on the pending request for the August 10 demonstration.