Kerala High Court Rebukes Political Leaders for Road Blockades During Protests
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court criticized political leaders for blocking roads during protests, causing public inconvenience. The court summoned major figures from rival factions and emphasized pedestrian safety while reiterating that the right to protest does not include obstructing public pathways.
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala HC reprimanded political factions for road blockades.
- Protests led to significant traffic disruptions in Kochi.
- Political leaders were summoned to court for their actions.
- The court emphasized pedestrian safety and lawful protest methods.
- Future hearings planned, with affidavits required from leaders.
Kochi, Feb 10 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has expressed strong disapproval towards prominent political figures from the state's leading rival factions for obstructing roads during protests, which has resulted in significant inconvenience for the public.
The court has consistently voiced its dissatisfaction with political groups holding demonstrations on primary thoroughfares. On December 5 of the previous year, as part of its party meeting in Thiruvananthapuram district, the ruling CPI(M) obstructed a busy road, leading to severe traffic congestion. This disruption coincided with the dismissal of schools and office closures, worsening commuter difficulties.
A petition contesting this unlawful action was submitted to the High Court, which swiftly responded by instructing the State Police Chief to provide a list of attendees and speakers at the meeting.
Following this, the court summoned CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan, former Minister and Speaker M. Vijayakumar, and senior legislators Kadakampally Surendran, V.K. Prasanth, and V. Joy, among others, to appear in person.
Reports of similar disruptions by political leaders emerged, leading the court to issue notices to CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam, former MP Paniyan Ravindran, and Congress leaders, including legislator T.G. Vinod and former State Minister Dominic Presentation.
On Monday, all leaders, except Govindan, appeared before the court. While recognizing the right to protest, the court stressed that this does not permit the obstruction of public roads or paths.
“Anyone can protest in a suitable way, but this does not authorize them to set up stages on public roads or pedestrian walkways,” Justice Anil K. Narendran remarked.
Highlighting pedestrian safety, the court stated, “With the increase in accidents, the public must not be placed in dangerous situations. Footpaths are designated for pedestrians, including those with visual impairments, and must remain clear.”
Despite the leaders offering unconditional apologies, the court mandated each of them to submit individual affidavits. Their personal appearances have been temporarily suspended, and the case is set for further hearing on March 3.
What particularly displeased the court was that the CPI(M) meeting took place directly in front of the Thiruvananthapuram district court and the Vanchiyoor police station. The court also expressed dissatisfaction with the police's management of the event.
