The Supreme Court’s observation came as it issued notice to the centre and the Delhi police on a plea seeking to declare illegal the banning of all assemblies in central Delhi. Photo: MintNew Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday said guidelines should be framed on the issue of the right to protest so as to ensure a balance between the fundamental right of the citizens to protest and the maintenance of law and order. Sikri and Ashok Bhushan observed that it was important to frame a guideline in this regard so that neither the fundamental right to protest was violated, nor any inconvenience caused to the public. The petition, filed through advocate Prashant Bhushan, has sought directions to formulate guidelines for holding public meetings, dharnas, peaceful demonstrations in parts of New Delhi. “As per sub-section 4 of Section 144 CrPC, an order can be issued for a maximum period of two months.

Source: Mint December 04, 2017 13:30 UTC