Supreme Court Warns of Action if CJP Protests Hit Connaught Place Traders During Festive Season
On Friday, October 16th, the Supreme Court said that it could take some serious action if the protests and security restrictions around Connaught Place (CP) in New Delhi cause the businesses to have unlawful losses. The remarks came amongst concerns which were raised by traders around the area over the proposed 'Lehra Do Tiranga' protest being organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).
The Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, and Justice Joymalya Bagchi were hearing a matter concerning the New Delhi Municipal Council's (NDMC) decision to close the area around Central Park for two days, ahead of the gathering. With regards to this, traders have argued that due to the repeated protests and gatherings, traffic restrictions and security arrangements, their commercial activities are being affected during this important festive period.
The Supreme Court, therefore, acknowledged these difficulties faced by small shopkeepers and stall owners whose livelihoods depend on their daily business, and how much their product is sold.
Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, representing the traders in court, said that the businesses in Connaught Place were suffering major losses each day. He sought urgent intervention from the court because of the upcoming festivals, including Dussehra, Diwali and Chhath.
The court has however not awarded any compensation. It has indicated that it could be considered if the restrictions were found to have caused unlawful business losses.
The organisations have also approached political leaders and authorities, asking for protection against forced shutdowns. They noted that disruptions could affect small businesses and daily-wage workers especially during the festive shopping season.
It was reported by the authorities that Central Park would remain closed for two days. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has declined to stop the proposed protest, while recording the Delhi Police's assurance that the gathering would be conducted according to law.
The Supreme Court's observations have brought more attention to the challenge of balancing the right to protest alongside the lives of traders and other workers. The next hearing could clarify whether or not further directions are necessary and will be happening, regarding the restrictions around Connaught Place.
The Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, and Justice Joymalya Bagchi were hearing a matter concerning the New Delhi Municipal Council's (NDMC) decision to close the area around Central Park for two days, ahead of the gathering. With regards to this, traders have argued that due to the repeated protests and gatherings, traffic restrictions and security arrangements, their commercial activities are being affected during this important festive period.
The Supreme Court, therefore, acknowledged these difficulties faced by small shopkeepers and stall owners whose livelihoods depend on their daily business, and how much their product is sold.
Supreme Court Raises Concern Over Traders' Livelihoods
During the hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant said that some directions may be necessary if businesses were being unfairly affected. Further, Justice Joymalya Bagchi also noted that the court could take action if the business’ losses resulted from unlawful restrictions.Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, representing the traders in court, said that the businesses in Connaught Place were suffering major losses each day. He sought urgent intervention from the court because of the upcoming festivals, including Dussehra, Diwali and Chhath.
The court has however not awarded any compensation. It has indicated that it could be considered if the restrictions were found to have caused unlawful business losses.
Traders Appeal for Protests to Be Held Elsewhere
The New Delhi Traders Association has urged the political parties and protesters to choose alternative venues for their protests. The association noted that the protests have affected sales and made it harder for customers and workers to access the area.The organisations have also approached political leaders and authorities, asking for protection against forced shutdowns. They noted that disruptions could affect small businesses and daily-wage workers especially during the festive shopping season.
Delhi Police Issues Traffic Advisory
The police have also stepped up security arrangements around the area ahead of the gathering. They warned that traffic movement on many roads could be affected from 3 pm onwards on October 16th, and advised commuters to plan their journeys in advance.It was reported by the authorities that Central Park would remain closed for two days. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has declined to stop the proposed protest, while recording the Delhi Police's assurance that the gathering would be conducted according to law.
The Supreme Court's observations have brought more attention to the challenge of balancing the right to protest alongside the lives of traders and other workers. The next hearing could clarify whether or not further directions are necessary and will be happening, regarding the restrictions around Connaught Place.
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