Newdelhi,Oct 12, 2026 13:40 ISTChief Justice of India Surya Kant stated on Monday that while democratic activities must proceed smoothly, they should not interfere with the operations of the Supreme Court or impede the travel of lawyers, court staff, and litigants. The observation was made after the bench agreed to review petitions, including one submitted by the Supreme Court Bar Association, regarding the hurdles faced by legal professionals due to ongoing demonstrations in the capital.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Kant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana considered the arguments presented by senior advocate and SCBA president Pradeep Rai concerning the disruption. The court clarified that it welcomed democratic expression, provided the Supreme Court's operations remained unhindered.

The Chief Justice emphasized that democratic actions should proceed without trouble, but the Supreme Court's routine must be protected. He noted that the institution is non-political and focused solely on discharging its official duties, adding that he had directly appealed to the demonstrators as well.

During the hearing, a senior lawyer suggested scheduling the matter for Tuesday given the challenges experienced over the preceding two days. Rai noted that attorneys are merely executing their professional obligations and urged that political parties avoid encroaching upon their sphere, noting that an independent lawyer had also filed a petition highlighting legitimate concerns.

Chief Justice Kant reiterated that the political affiliation of the protesters is irrelevant to the bench, emphasizing that the judiciary must stay clear of political entanglements. The panel underscored that there should be no barriers or incitement affecting the administration of justice or the movement of individuals associated with the court.

The demonstrations in Delhi stem from demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Previously, the SCBA denounced the alleged use of excessive force against attorneys heading toward Jantar Mantar for a demonstration organized by the CJP against the CEC, prompting an urgent appeal for judicial intervention.

While acknowledging the right to peaceful assembly, the bench maintained that judicial proceedings and access to the nation's highest court must stay fully protected from obstruction and political interference.