The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to examine a petition seeking legal action against the organizers of the July 20 “Sansad Chalo” demonstration over allegations of inciting violence, while emphasizing that law enforcement agencies must show restraint and counsel young demonstrators even when confronting stone-pelting.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana ordered the plea to be tagged alongside a related pending petition. During the hearing, the bench stressed that an aggressive stance by state authorities risks exacerbating social tensions and escalating unrest among youth.
Court Advocates Dialogue Over Aggressive Enforcement
Addressing submissions regarding violent disruption, Chief Justice Kant observed that young individuals involved in stone-pelting require guidance and pacification rather than heavy-handed measures. He stated that actively listening to demonstrators represents the most effective approach to resolving conflict, while reiterating that police authorities possess the necessary expertise and discretion to manage field situations appropriately.
The court noted that official efforts should focus on encouraging peaceful demonstrations while ensuring security forces exercise caution if disruptions occur.
Plea Highlights Security Concerns at Parliament
The petition, filed by retired Air Force officer Maneesh Kumar Solanki through advocate Rizwan Ahmed, raised questions over organizer accountability two weeks after the march. The counsel submitted that organizers were making provocative public statements rather than helping restore calm.
Citing a recent law-and-order incident in Rajasthan, the lawyer cautioned against state authorities yielding to violent agitation. He argued that tolerating stone-pelting establishes a problematic precedent that could invite similar conduct by student groups in other regions, referencing potential unrest in Uttar Pradesh and comparing the situation to past border blockades.
The petitioner’s counsel further highlighted security risks associated with hundreds of marchers moving toward the Parliament complex, emphasizing the potential hazards to the legislative site. Beyond seeking accountability for the march organizers, the petition requested that individuals who directed derogatory remarks at security personnel be identified and mandated to perform community service.
