The Supreme Court on Sunday, October 11, 2026, directed the Centre and authorities in Delhi to remove barricades across the national capital unless they were “absolutely warranted,” stressing that the free movement of people must be restored amid restrictions imposed during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest. The court also called for the normal functioning of metro and railway services, subject to necessary measures to maintain public order.
The directions came during a special hearing on petitions challenging restrictions imposed ahead of Saturday’s planned demonstration at Jantar Mantar. The protest was organised to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations concerning electoral roll revisions.
A bench comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana emphasised that while authorities could regulate public gatherings to maintain law and order, restrictions should not unnecessarily disrupt the daily lives and movement of residents.
Supreme Court Stresses Right to Peaceful Protest
During the hearing, the bench acknowledged citizens’ right to protest but underlined that demonstrations must be conducted within the framework of applicable laws and regulations.
The court observed that peaceful assembly and public order must be balanced, making it clear that the right to protest does not exempt organisers from complying with legal requirements. At the same time, authorities must ensure that security arrangements do not impose disproportionate restrictions on ordinary citizens. <Cite refs={[“turn849150search0″,”turn849150search9”]}/>
The court also directed authorities to review the need for barricades in light of prevailing traffic and public-order conditions, allowing necessary restrictions where justified.
Metro Services and Internet Access
The Supreme Court also called for metro and railway services to operate normally unless restrictions were necessary to address public-order concerns. It directed authorities to ensure that internet facilities remained undisturbed in accordance with the law. <Cite refs={[“turn849150search1″,”turn849150search11”]}/>
The directions followed widespread restrictions in Delhi on October 10, when several metro stations were closed, railway services faced restrictions and security personnel were deployed across key locations. Protesters were reportedly detained as police prevented demonstrators from reaching Jantar Mantar.
Petitioners argued that the restrictions had disrupted public transport and resulted in unnecessary hardship for commuters, lawyers, students and other residents.
Authorities Asked to Explain Restrictions
The bench issued notices to the authorities, including the Delhi Police, the Union Home Secretary and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), seeking responses regarding the restrictions and detentions. Authorities were asked to submit a compliance report by Tuesday.
The court also stressed that peaceful, unarmed protesters should not face illegal detention and that any restrictions must comply with the law.
CJP Protest and Demand for Electoral Accountability
The CJP demonstration was called to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of irregularities in electoral roll revisions. The Election Commission’s electoral processes have faced criticism from opponents, while the controversy remains a matter of political debate.
The Supreme Court’s intervention has brought renewed attention to the balance between public security, freedom of movement and the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
The matter is scheduled for further consideration, with authorities expected to respond to the court’s directions and explain the measures implemented during the protests.
