The Punjab and Haryana High Court made a significant decision on Tuesday, permitting farmers’ protests in the states of Punjab and Haryana, asserting their fundamental right to assemble as citizens of India.
In response to two Public Interest Litigations (PILs) concerning the ongoing agitation that has extended to Delhi from Punjab and Haryana, the court emphasized the protesters’ rights while urging state governments to ensure citizens’ safety and convenience, taking measures to minimize inconvenience.
The bench, comprising Acting Chief Justice GS Sandhawalia and Justice Lapita Banerji, heard a PIL challenging Haryana’s decision to seal its borders and another PIL against protesters blocking state and national highways.
Uday Pratap Singh, the first petitioner, invoked Supreme Court judgments underscoring the right to assemble peacefully and legitimate dissent, emphasizing the fundamental aspect of rights of affected individuals.
Arvind Seth, another petitioner, urged collaboration between Punjab, Haryana, and the Centre to prevent road blockages.
In response, Additional Solicitor General Satya Pal Jain, representing the Centre, informed the court about meetings held with farmer unions to address the issue.
The Haryana State Counsel highlighted concerns about modified tractors and past incidents during farmer protests.
The court took note of an advisory from Delhi regarding maintaining law and order, prompting inquiries from Union Counsel.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court issued notices to the states, directing them to file status reports and encouraging parties to resolve the dispute through dialogue.
The next hearing is scheduled for February 15, underscoring the court’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the ongoing issues surrounding the protests.
Dhairya Saraswat