Delhi Metro Shutdown, Curbs & Transit Chaos: Supreme Court Hears Contempt Pleas

The Supreme Court heard petitions challenging blanket transit shutdowns and preventive detentions enforced in Delhi. A contempt petition alleged wilful defiance of the court's October 9 directive after 45 metro stations were shut for over 21 hours, train services were cancelled, and commuters were stranded. The plea sought action against senior officials, including the Home Secretary, Delhi Police chief, and Metro chief. Multiple applications were taken up before a bench of Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V. Mohana, including a habeas corpus petition moved by Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy and contempt proceedings filed by Shailendra Mani Tripathi. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal submitted arguments detailing internet suspensions across a four-kilometre radius, detentions outside the embargo zone, and disproportionate restrictions. Lawyers also highlighted police action, alleging that blanket curbs prevented them from attending court, with counsel stating they faced assault and brutality. The court considered issuing notices and listing the matters for Monday while granting time to the Solicitor General to file responses.