The petition seeks an alternative arrangement for holding demonstrations. File.
| Photo Credit: Shashi Shekhar Kashyap
The Supreme Court on Monday (August 3, 2026) asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to consult with the Centre on the issues raised in a petition contending that Jantar Mantar is not the “right site” to hold protests.
It has no. In his petition, Satish Chand Kaushik, said the location lacks sewage, food and other facilities, and went on to identify other sites in the national capital.
A bench comprising Chief Justice and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana issued notices to the Centre and others on the plea filed by Mr. Kaushik.
The petition seeks an alternative arrangement for holding demonstrations, saying protests at Jantar Mantar create difficulties for local residents and disrupt the supply of essential goods and medical services.
During the hearing, the CJI said that the petition raised concerns relating to access and movement in the area.
“It has been stated in the plea that Jantar Mantar is not a proper site anymore for such protests due to ingress and egress issues. Supply of medical essentials etc. I think this is important… Please take instructions, Mr Solicitor. Issue notice and list this separately,” the CJI said.
During the proceedings, the counsel for the petitioner also referred to a proposed political march, submitting that “Arvind Kejriwal called a town hall and decided to march to the Prime Minister’s residence,” and said that “another July 20 incident should be avoided”.
Responding to the submission, the bench declined to comment on the proposed event.
“They know how to handle it. If they cannot, come to us for mishandling. I am sure they will handle (it),” the CJI said.
The matter has been directed to be listed separately.
(With PTI inputs)
Published – August 03, 2026 12:26 pm IST
