CJP Protest: Supreme Court orders removal of unnecessary barricades, seeks action against illegal detentions
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, October 11, 2026: The Supreme Court on Sunday directed authorities to review barricades across Delhi, ensure the free movement of people in accordance with law and prevent illegal detentions amid allegations of excessive police action during the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) protest in the national capital.
A special bench of Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana heard petitions challenging restrictions imposed ahead of Saturday's protest at Jantar Mantar, which sought the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
The petitioners alleged that restrictions affected metro services, railway stations and road traffic, while protesters were subjected to harassment and detention beyond areas covered by prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
Court stresses protection of fundamental rights
The bench directed authorities to review the need for barricades in light of public order and traffic conditions. It also said metro services should function normally unless restrictions were necessary to address a threat to public order, and that internet facilities should remain undisturbed in accordance with law.
Emphasising its constitutional responsibilities, the court said it would remain a neutral arbiter while protecting fundamental rights under Article 32 of the Constitution.
The bench also directed authorities to remove any notices or boards announcing the imposition of Section 163 restrictions in and around the Supreme Court premises, if they had not already been removed, to ensure that access to justice was not impeded.
Response sought over alleged police excesses
The court said allegations of violations of statutory duties, including excessive use of force, illegal detention and the alleged involvement of an unbadged police officer, required a response from the authorities.
A lawyer also raised concerns about the alleged seizure of mobile phones belonging to protesters, including vulnerable individuals. The bench said the issue would be considered at the next hearing and asked the lawyer to file an application.
The court permitted lawyers seeking to intervene in the proceedings to submit impleadment applications, subject to serving copies on the Solicitor General's office by Sunday.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on Tuesday, when the authorities are expected to respond to the concerns raised before the court.
The proceedings follow the security measures imposed across parts of Delhi ahead of the CJP protest, including restrictions affecting metro stations, railway movement and access to areas around the demonstration site.