Supreme Court orders removal of barricades and restoration of internet and public transport services.

BanglaPress Desk: The Supreme Court of India has ordered the relaxation of restrictions imposed in the capital, Delhi, in connection with protests by the 'Cockroach Janata Party' (CJP). The Court directed that all barricades be removed—except where absolutely necessary—to restore normal public movement. Simultaneously, orders were issued to ensure internet services remain active and to normalize rail and metro operations.
These directives were issued on Sunday (October 11) during the hearing of a contempt of court petition filed against the decision to close various metro stations and cancel train services in Delhi. Advocate Shailendra Mani Tripathi had filed the petition.
The Court stated that while restrictions could be imposed as needed to maintain public order, it must be ensured that the normal movement of the general public is not obstructed.
Earlier, during a hearing on October 9 regarding a separate case, the Supreme Court had issued directives concerning the closure of 57 metro stations and the cancellation of train services in Delhi. A fresh petition seeking judicial intervention was filed in light of that earlier order.
**Right to protest exists, but the law must be followed**
The bench, comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V. Mohana, observed during the hearing that citizens have the right to protest. However, the law must be adhered to while exercising that right.
The Court observed, "You have the right to protest; there is no dispute about that. But the method of protest must remain within the bounds of the law."
Addressing the petitioner, Justice Bagchi remarked that the right to protest cannot be claimed to stand above the law.
The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Delhi Police, the Union Home Secretary, and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to examine the situation and the procedure regarding the detention of individuals during the protests. A directive was also issued to submit a report detailing the progress of the Court's order implementation by next Tuesday. Source: NDTV
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