The State Police Chief, DGP Shaikh Darvesh Sahib, submitted an affidavit to the Kerala High Court on Wednesday, detailing actions taken to ensure that public roads and footpaths are not obstructed by meetings or processions. This comes in response to a plea for contempt of court proceedings against key political figures for alleged violations of judicial orders.
The affidavit outlines the issuance of a recent circular reinforcing the Kerala Public Ways (Restrictions of Assemblies and Processions) Act 2011. The directive emphasizes strict adherence to the Act’s provisions and compliance with judicial mandates against the obstruction of public ways.
DGP Sahib expressed regret for past incidents where roads were blocked by political protests, notably by the CPI(M) and Congress, causing significant inconvenience. He stated, “There was no intention whatsoever to flout the orders of the High Court. This respondent (police) has acted quickly when the violations were brought to the notice. We remain fully committed to ensuring that the law of the land is followed strictly and the orders of the courts are implemented in its letter and spirit.”
The affidavit was prompted by a petition seeking contempt proceedings against CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan for his role in organizing a conference in Thiruvananthapuram’s Palayam area, which allegedly impeded public road access. The controversy extends to similar protests across Kerala, prompting the court to widen its scrutiny to include multiple events orchestrated by the CPI and Congress.
As a result of these events, the High Court has initiated contempt proceedings against several leaders, including CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam and other affiliates from the LDF and Congress. These individuals, along with implicated senior police officials, are summoned to appear before the court on February 10 to address the allegations.
