The Supreme Court on Friday warned it could intervene if ongoing protests and security restrictions around Connaught Place continue to impact businesses, where traders claim losses exceeding ₹250 crore daily. The warning came during hearings on the New Delhi Municipal Council's decision to close Central Park for two days ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party's protest, according to livemint.com.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi heard arguments regarding the NDMC's closure of Central Park on October 16 and 17 for administrative reasons. Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, representing the traders, highlighted the severe financial impact, stating losses over ₹250 crore daily due to protests and restrictions. Meanwhile, CJP’s Abhijeet Dipke argued that peaceful protests do not harm businesses, attributing disruptions to government-imposed restrictions such as internet shutdowns and movement curbs.
The Supreme Court acknowledged the hardships faced by small traders, hawkers, and stall owners in the area and indicated it could exercise constitutional powers if restrictions unlawfully affected economic activity. The case underscores tensions between the right to protest and economic interests in a key commercial hub, with the NDMC's administrative decisions drawing scrutiny amid claims of significant financial damage.
Central Park's closure on October 16 and 17 remains in effect as the Supreme Court monitors the situation. The court's next steps could set precedents on balancing protest rights with business continuity in high-profile urban centers, according to livemint.com.