The Supreme Court of India firmly declared that “nobody can browbeat us” while hearing a petition regarding an October 12 protest march led by prominent Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and other INDIA bloc figures, toward the judicial complex.
The bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant alongside Justice Joymalya Bagchi, addressed concerns surrounding attempts to exert external pressure on the judiciary. Responding to submissions by counsel alleging organized efforts to influence the court during the demonstration, CJI Surya Kant stated that the bench remains fully observant of activities occurring beyond the courtroom doors. Emphasizing independence, the Chief Justice remarked that the judges do not sit in “ivory towers” and are entirely mindful of statements made publicly versus those presented inside the courtroom, dismissing external pressure tactics as ineffective and fragile.
The petition, filed by advocates, sought judicial guidelines to regulate demonstrations around the Supreme Court and High Courts, proposing an absolute prohibition on political protests inside judicial precincts. The plea further requested measures to prevent political campaigns aimed at influencing pending judicial proceedings and urged the court to consider criminal contempt proceedings against political leaders involved in the event. Concerns were also raised regarding safety during the procession, with lawyers noting incidents of public disruption and alleging that a pregnant journalist was pushed during the demonstration.
In response to the petition, the apex court issued notices to relevant parties, including political leaders involved in leading the procession, seeking their formal explanation regarding their conduct during the event. To ensure a comprehensive review, the bench directed all law enforcement agencies to secure and preserve all digital evidence, including CCTV recordings collected during the demonstration, while permitting private parties to submit relevant video footage as well.
The hearing occurred amidst broader judicial scrutiny involving petitions related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and associated public protests in the national capital. The Supreme Court emphasized the need to preserve public order, safeguard the independence of the judicial system, and ensure that court proceedings remain entirely free from external intimidation or political posturing.
Dynamic Leader News Desk
