SC: Lathi-charge not justified solely by protest; uniform police guidelines needed
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court, while hearing pleas on police excesses during student protests, affirmed the constitutional right to peaceful agitation. It stated that a lathi-charge cannot be justified solely by a protest and called for uniform police guidelines.
Background
The case relates to allegations of police excesses during student protests, prompting the Court to examine the limits of police force in response to peaceful demonstrations.
Key facts
Supreme Court bench led by CJI Surya Kant heard pleas on police excesses during student protests.
Court affirmed that the right to peaceful, lawful protest is constitutionally guaranteed.
Observation: agitation alone cannot justify a lathi-charge by police.
Court called for uniform guidelines for police response to protests.
The ruling reinforces fundamental rights under Article 19(1)(a) and (b) of the Constitution.
Prelims pointers
- Article 19(1)(a): Freedom of speech and expression
- Article 19(1)(b): Right to assemble peaceably and without arms
- Article 19(2): Reasonable restrictions on these rights
- Lathi-charge: use of force by police with batons
- Supreme Court of India
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Fundamental Rights - Right to protest and reasonable restrictions
- GS2 Polity: Role of judiciary in protecting civil liberties
- GS2 Governance: Police reforms and accountability
- GS3 Internal Security: Use of force in maintaining public order