The Punjab and Haryana High Court has upheld the farmers’ right to move freely within the country. Two petitions related to the farmers’ “Delhi Chalo” march were brought before the court, which issued notices to the central government and the states of Haryana and Punjab. The court also instructed the state governments to determine protest sites, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining citizen safety and convenience by minimizing disruption caused by the protests.
One petitioner urged the court to halt any “obstructive” actions taken by the governments of Haryana, Punjab, and the Union government against the farmers’ protest, while the other requested measures to prevent highway blockades by protesters and punishment for those who engage in such activities.
The bench of Acting Chief Justice GS Sandhawalia and Justice Lapita Banerji presided over the hearing of these petitions. Additional Solicitor General of India Satya Pal Jain, representing the Centre, stated that notices have been issued and the next hearing is scheduled for February 15.
Jain mentioned that three Union ministers have already held meetings with farmer leaders on February 8 and Monday, demonstrating the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue and resolve the matter peacefully. Regarding law and order, Jain clarified that it falls under the jurisdiction of the state governments. Additionally, he emphasized that the Centre is prepared to provide support, including additional forces, if requested by the governments of Haryana and Punjab.
One of the petitioners, Uday Partap Singh from Haryana’s Panchkula, sought directions from the court to halt any obstructive actions by the governments of Haryana, Punjab, and the central authorities against the farmers’ protest. Singh argued that the sealing of the border between Haryana and Punjab, particularly at Shambhu border near Ambala, is unlawful and aims to prevent farmers from exercising their constitutional right to assemble and protest peacefully. Furthermore, Singh highlighted that the suspension of mobile internet services and bulk SMS by the Haryana government in certain areas exacerbates the situation, infringing on citizens’ right to information and communication.
The plea also mentioned the inconvenience caused by the road blockades, affecting residents and impeding the movement of ambulances, school buses, pedestrians, and other vehicles. This obstruction has resulted in increased traffic on alternative routes, causing delays and difficulties for professionals like advocates, doctors, and emergency services who are unable to reach their workplaces promptly.
The other petitioner, Arvind Seth, requested directions from the court to ensure that protesters do not block highways or other roads. This plea was directed towards the states of Punjab and Haryana, the Centre, and the National Highway Authority of India.
Source
हिन्दी 