Supreme Court stresses constitutional decorum as opposition marches in Delhi

Security deployment in central Delhi

Heavy security was deployed across central Delhi on Monday as opposition lawmakers led by Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge marched towards the Supreme Court, demanding action over electoral roll management. Police set up extensive barricades along Barakhamba Road and Bhagwan Das Road to maintain order, restricting traffic and metro station access across key intersections to protect public safety and prevent disruption.

The demonstration follows allegations raised by opposition parties regarding voter registration processes under Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Both the Election Commission and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party have firmly rejected the allegations, noting that constitutional mechanisms exist to address any formal grievances. BJP President Nitin Nabin condemned the protest movement, stating that opposition leaders were seeking to destabilize national order and create unwarranted unrest.

Supreme Court emphasizes constitutional procedure

Addressing reporters amidst the developments, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant emphasized that the judiciary remains accessible to everyone through proper legal channels, while declining a direct meeting with a political delegation on matters currently pending before the court. Chief Justice Kant affirmed that every citizen possesses the right to approach the court and present concerns through legal petitions, urging all parties to respect judicial procedure rather than bringing political disputes to court gates.

"Every Indian citizen has the right to approach the court, and we will hear their concerns and grant whatever is due under the law," Chief Justice Kant said, stressing that constitutional decorum must be maintained.

The court's stance underscores the fundamental right of citizens and legal professionals to engage in peaceful expression and seek judicial intervention strictly within the framework of law and order.

Pragmatic approach on firecracker regulations

In a separate proceeding on Monday concerning Delhi-NCR air quality, a Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V Mohana declined to impose a blanket ban on firecrackers ahead of Diwali. The bench called for a practical strategy that balances environmental considerations with public traditions, advocating citizen awareness and voluntary adoption of safer green alternatives.

Justice Bagchi noted the importance of public awareness, while Chief Justice Kant cautioned against unenforceable restrictive orders that can be perceived as coercive. The bench urged the public to voluntarily restrict celebrations to designated hours and embrace cleaner practices.

With police maintaining strict vigilance across the capital, opposition leaders confirmed plans to submit their petition through formal legal filings, reinforcing the primacy of constitutional process over street agitation.