Newdelhi, Oct 11, 2026: The Supreme Court on Sunday ruled that individuals gathering peacefully should not be subjected to unlawful detention, while instructing the Centre to ensure that Delhi Metro networks operate on normal schedules and internet services remain undisrupted, subject to law-and-order requirements, amid demonstrations organized by the Cockroach Janta Party in New Delhi.
During a special hearing, a bench comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued a notice to the central government in response to a petition seeking contempt proceedings. The petition alleged violations of an earlier judicial directive prohibiting a complete shutdown of metro and train systems in the national capital on account of protests.
The demonstrations were called by the CJP and various student groups to protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar regarding alleged procedural flaws within the Election Commission. A planned mass gathering at Jantar Mantar was previously blocked following extensive security measures and the detention of more than 7,000 individuals, which included political figures, student representatives, and public personalities.
The bench directed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to guarantee normal operations for the Delhi Metro and prevent any suspension of internet connectivity, provided law and order is maintained. The court also underscored that professionals such as lawyers and journalists must be permitted to perform their duties without obstruction. The justices noted that legal powers under the Information Technology Act remain intact, but stressed that detentions must follow established legal procedures.
Additionally, the court ordered the removal of a notice board near its premises that announced the imposition of section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, which restricts assemblies of five or more people. The bench stated that the board should be taken down so that citizens and legal practitioners could freely access justice.
During proceedings, legal representatives for various petitioners detailed widespread restrictions, noting that numerous metro stations were closed and dozens of detention facilities were established across the city. Counsel highlighted that many citizens, including senior advocates, had been detained or subjected to police action while attempting to exercise their right to peaceful assembly.
Representing the authorities, the Solicitor General submitted that restrictions were limited to a fraction of the city's metro stations for security reasons and that most detained individuals had already been freed. The bench continued its examination of the petitions concerning personal liberty, alleged police overreach, and contempt of previous judicial orders.