Delhi High Court Approached Over Rejected Peaceful Protest Request

The Apex Body Leh has filed a plea with the Delhi High Court, urging it to allow climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and fellow 'Padyatris' to hold peaceful protests at Jantar Mantar. The petition challenges a Delhi Police decision that allegedly infringes on constitutional rights to free speech and assembly.

The Apex Body Leh has moved the Delhi High Court seeking intervention for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and 'Padyatris' to stage a peaceful protest at a suitable venue, like Jantar Mantar, from October 8 to 23, 2024. Citing Article 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(b) of the Indian Constitution, the petition emphasizes the participants' right to free speech and peaceful assembly.

Covering over 900 kilometers on a Padyatra from Leh to Delhi, around 200 participants are voicing concerns about Ladakh's ecological decline and cultural erosion. Their plea for an awareness campaign and protest in Delhi was denied by police, who reportedly cited 'no valid grounds.' This decision has been challenged as contravening fundamental rights.

On Tuesday, Chief Justice Manmohan's bench, along with Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, was approached for an urgent hearing. The court set the matter for Wednesday. The petition stresses the demonstration's peaceful intent and notes that the refusal undermines open dialogue on crucial issues. The appeal fires back at the authorities for curbing a fundamental democratic practice. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)