In a major development, the Supreme Court on Friday asked the Centre to take an appropriate decision on identifying an alternative designated protest site
in place of Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, stressing the need for a suitable location where demonstrators can stage peaceful protests with access to basic amenities. The direction came after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the top court that the Centre would consider designating another location for holding peaceful protests. "We will soon decide on designating some other place as the designated protest site. It was a very well-put suggestion, and Mr Sibal (appearing for the protesters) also very fairly agreed," Mehta told the court. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant also observed that it was time to identify an alternative venue to facilitate peaceful protests while ensuring protesters had access to basic facilities. "All sides have agreed that it is high time there is an alternative place for protesters for a peaceful protest, where basic amenities can be provided. The competent authority shall take a suitable decision," the CJI said. The court's observations signal a possible shift in the designated protest venue in the national capital, with the Centre now expected to consider an alternative to Jantar Mantar.
