Supreme Court reviews de-notification of Jantar Mantar as protest site

The Supreme Court of India has sought responses from the Centre and Delhi Police regarding a petition challenging the de-notification of Jantar Mantar as a designated protest site. On October 11, Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued a standing order removing Jantar Mantar from its official status and designating three alternative venues for demonstrations: Ramlila Ground in Central Delhi, Burari Ground in North Delhi, and CBD Ground in East Delhi.

The decision follows recommendations from a committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. While Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated that a previous Supreme Court order was not the basis for this de-notification, the court indicated it would examine whether authorities properly considered the efficacy of Jantar Mantar as a site for making voices heard.

Opposition leaders, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, have criticized the move, arguing that Jantar Mantar belongs to the people. The de-notification follows recent protests involving various groups and student organizations. The court has also directed Delhi Police to submit prohibitory orders issued under Section 163 of the BNSS that restricted public gatherings in the city.