Supreme Court Issues Notice Over Prolonged Protests Affecting Delhi Businesses

The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Central government and other parties while hearing a petition filed by business associations in Delhi over the impact of prolonged protests on commercial activities. The traders argued that demonstrations were causing significant financial losses, particularly during the festive season, and affecting businesses in Connaught Place (CP). They also claimed that around 50 lakh people were facing inconvenience because of the protests and sought the court's intervention.

During the hearing, the Supreme Court observed that it could not pass an effective order unless the protesters and the organisers of the demonstrations were also made parties to the case. It asked the petitioners to include their names as respondents. The court remarked that the right to protest cannot be used to occupy public spaces indefinitely and that the concerns of other members of society must also be recognised. It emphasised that everyone has the right to raise their voice over their problems. The court also heard petitions concerning mass detentions, alleged police use of force, and the suspension of metro station and internet services.