NEW DELHI: Seeking prior permission for a protest is essential for enabling appropriate arrangements for traffic management, emergency services, crowd regulation and the safety movement of people.The permission must sought only three days before the proposed gathering, as against the 10-day requirement.
The July experience
In July, permission was granted for a one-day protest, but the gathering continued for approximately a month. During this period, more than 200 police personnel were injured and over 2,000 individuals with criminal antecedents participated in the protest, contributing to incidents of violence.As the situation escalated, clashes occurred, resulting in injuries to innocent students as well. The safety of peaceful protesters, police personnel deployed on duty and members of the public passing through the area became a matter of concern.
Strategic location
While the right to peaceful protest is an important democratic right, New Delhi houses important establishments and offices of constitutional authorities and the safety and convenience of residents, workers, commuters and businesses must also be protected.Delhi Police is responsible for safeguarding all these interests while maintaining public order.
Practical limitations
Jantar Mantar is a relatively small area that can safely accommodate approximately 1,000 people at a time. As the national capital and a major economic centre, Delhi must continue to function with available disruption.Delhi Police is required to balance the interests of those wishing to exercise their right to protest with the safety, mobility and economic well-being of the city’s residents, workers, traders and other stakeholders.
What CJP said
CJP’s Saurav Das, however, said police had the information on Oct 2 when the outfit announced the protest. The 10-day timeline was to ensure that adequate security forces were deployed and traffic arrangements were made, he said, adding that even before Oct 2, forces had been deployed as other outfits were protesting on the same issue.“We vehemently disagree with the very concept of seeking ‘permission’ from the govt to protest against it. It’s absurd and doesn’t make any sense. It’s a colonial mindset,” Das said.
