-by TANUJ SHARMA

The petitioner representing a fraction of the population of the residents of NCT Delhi/Haryana had submitted the claim that the manner in which the protests by the farmers are being carried on is seriously preventing the supply of essential goods to the city due to the current restrictions on the free movement of the goods vehicles. And this will lead to a sharp increase in the prices of the goods which will be difficult for people specially in difficult times of pandemic.

The petitioners further submitted that no fundamental right is absolute and hence it would be necessary for the court to determine the limits of the right of free speech and expression and the extent to which this particular right can be exercised with the rights of other citizens.

The respondents have contended that the roads are blocked by the police in order to prevent the entries of protesters or farmers from entering to the city.

The bench adjudicated by hon’ble CJI SA Bobde and Justices AS Bopanna and Justice V Ramasubramanian held that there can be no obstruction to the rights of the farmers to protest as long as it is a non-violent protest not leading to damages to life and property of other citizens and is in accordance with law.

Additionally, the court advised the parties to submit suggestions about the constitution of the said committee on the next date of hearing in the matter. In the meantime, it granted the respondents to continue their protests freely without damaging any life or property.