Karnataka High Court orders CCTV audit at all police stations across State

The Karnataka High Court has ruled that pending criminal proceedings should not prevent individuals from participating in Independence Day celebrations. In a significant decision, Justice Suraj Govindaraj dismissed a plea by the Hindu Jagrana Vedike and its leader, Vasanth Kumar A Y, challenging a police endorsement that denied permission for a procession planned in Mysuru.

The court emphasized that the Independence Day celebration is of national importance and belongs to every citizen, regardless of their criminal status. Justice Govindaraj stated, "The right to participate in such a celebration is available to every citizen. That right cannot be denied only because criminal proceedings are pending against a person."

The petitioners sought permission for an 'Akhanda Bharatha Sankalpa Dhina' torchlight march from RMC Ganesha Temple to Dodda Gadiyara Circle on August 14. The police had initially rejected the request, citing concerns about potential communal tension, hospitals along the route, and possible disruption to traffic.

The High Court clarified that restrictions on the procession must be based on objective material, not mere speculative apprehensions. It acknowledged the police's duty to maintain law and order but stressed that such restrictions should be grounded in specific, factual evidence.

The court also rejected the state's argument that pending criminal cases posed a threat to public peace. It emphasized that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. The court stated, "Until a competent Court records a finding of guilt, every accused is presumed to be innocent."

The High Court ordered the authorities to allow the procession to take place on August 14, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, from RMC Ganesha Temple to Dodda Gadiyara Circle. However, it directed that the police could impose reasonable conditions if genuine law and order concerns existed. The petitioners were allowed to conduct the march, provided they obtained the necessary permission from the concerned authorities.