Supreme Court refuses to stop CJP's September 5 Delhi protest march, urges peaceful conduct

The Supreme Court on Monday declined to issue directions to prohibit a protest march planned by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) in Delhi on September 5, saying it expected both the protesters and law enforcement agencies to act peacefully and within the framework of the law.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana also asked the petitioner to place his representation before the High Powered Enquiry Committee constituted by the court to examine allegations of police violence during the NEET protests.

Issuing notice in the matter, the court said the plea would be taken up along with pending petitions on September 10.

The bench said maintaining law and order was the responsibility of the authorities, while protesters were also expected to respect the law.

The court said it expected all sides to conduct themselves peacefully and act within the legal framework governing public demonstrations.

Plea sought restrictions on CJP protest

The petition was filed by retired Delhi Police officer Rajendra Singh, seeking directions against large-scale mobilisation, marches or organised demonstrations in security-sensitive areas of the national capital without prior permission from the competent authorities.

The plea specifically referred to areas including India Gate, Central Vista and adjoining zones.

It also sought regulation, postponement or modification of any proposed mobilisation in Lutyens' Delhi until after the BRICS Summit scheduled for September 12 and 13.

The petitioner further sought directions to ensure that marches and processions do not move beyond authorised limits unless permitted under the applicable regulatory framework.

CJP announces September 5 march

The CJP has called for a protest march in Delhi on September 5, accusing the Centre of failing to fulfil assurances allegedly made on July 25, following which the group had withdrawn its 36-day agitation over examination irregularities.

Delhi Police had earlier said it had not received a request for permission for the proposed procession from India Gate to the Delhi Police Headquarters, despite the organisation announcing its plans.

The protest, scheduled to be held on Teachers' Day, is expected to be led by families of students who died by suicide following the cancellation of the NEET examination earlier this year and the subsequent re-test.

Families of those who allegedly faced police excesses during the July agitation are also expected to participate in the march.

With PTI inputs