‘Don't waste our time’: Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing on plea against police action on CJP student protesters

The Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to grant an urgent hearing on a petition challenging the alleged police action against student protesters linked to the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) movement, observing that the matter did not warrant immediate intervention.

During the mentioning of the case, the Bench told the petitioner's counsel, "Don't waste our time," while refusing to accord the matter urgent listing. The court indicated that the plea could be taken up through the normal judicial process.

Plea challenged police action

The petition sought judicial intervention over the alleged use of force by Delhi Police during the recent 'Chalo Sansad' protests, in which students and activists claimed they were subjected to excessive police action.

The petitioners requested an immediate hearing, arguing that the matter involved fundamental rights and required urgent consideration.

Court declines urgent listing

The Bench, however, was not persuaded to hear the matter on priority.

While refusing the request for an urgent listing, the judges advised the petitioners to follow the standard procedure for the case to be listed before the appropriate Bench.

The court did not express any opinion on the merits of the allegations made in the petition.

Protest sparked political row

The legal challenge follows widespread controversy over the police response to demonstrations organised in support of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.

The protests led by CJP triggered clashes between demonstrators and security personnel, resulting in detentions, multiple FIRs and a series of legal petitions before the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court.

The issue has also dominated proceedings in Parliament, with Opposition parties accusing the government of suppressing peaceful protests, while the Centre has defended the police action as necessary to maintain law and order.

Matter to follow regular process

With the Supreme Court declining an urgent hearing, the petition is expected to proceed through the regular listing process.

The case is likely to come up before the appropriate Bench at a later date, even as related legal and political developments surrounding the CJP protests continue to unfold.