New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Sunday directed authorities not to unlawfully detain peaceful protesters and said public movement must be facilitated in accordance with the law, amid heightened security restrictions in Delhi.
A special bench comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana said no person could be detained without following the procedure established by law. It also observed that peaceful assemblies must be allowed in areas where prohibitory orders are not in force.
The bench clarified that peaceful gatherings would be permitted in accordance with the law in areas outside the scope of restrictions imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
The court also directed that Delhi Metro and railway services should operate normally unless specific restrictions were necessary to maintain public order under the applicable constitutional and legal provisions.
Emphasising the need to ensure the free movement of people across the city, the bench ordered an immediate review of barricades erected in view of law-and-order and traffic concerns.
It further said internet services should continue uninterrupted in accordance with the law, while clarifying that its directions did not interfere with the statutory powers of authorities under the Information Technology Act.
The bench said the court remained ready to serve the country whenever required.
