Supreme Court asks Centre to consider ‘important’ plea that Jantar Mantar is not the right site for protests

On August 3, 2026, the Supreme Court requested Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to investigate a petition arguing that Jantar Mantar should not be the primary location for public protests and demonstrations. The petition, filed by Satish Chand Kaushik and represented by Aakarshan Aditya, contended that Jantar Mantar was no longer an appropriate site due to congestion issues, difficulty in supplying medical essentials, and the need for larger and more secure grounds.

The counsel highlighted the challenges faced by ordinary commuters in central Delhi because of ongoing protests and demonstrations, which had led to traffic snarls. The petition also drew attention to the recent AAP town hall meeting outside the Constitution Club and the police crackdown on protests at Jantar Mantar. Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized the significance of the matter, stating that the court would take instructions and issue a notice separately.

The court's decision comes amid repeated rulings upholding the right to peaceful protests while balancing the need to prevent disruptions and occupying public spaces.