The Supreme Court on Friday directed the government to revisit proposed restrictions on Delhi Metro entry gates and road networks scheduled for October 10. The court expressed significant concern over the potential impact on hundreds of thousands of commuters, including employees, students, and senior citizens who rely on public transport to travel from the National Capital Region (NCR), such as Gurugram and Greater Noida, to Delhi for their livelihoods.
During the hearing, the Chief Justice of India emphasized that while law enforcement agencies are entitled to regulate movement to maintain public order, these measures should not result in a total cessation of transport services. The bench remarked that authorities should avoid overreacting to potential disruptions, stating, “One should not use hammer to kill fly.” The court stressed that while it is not interfering with the management of protesters, the government must ensure a “free flow” of traffic for those traveling to the city for daily work.
The judiciary urged officials to adopt a more nuanced strategy by identifying specific areas where regulation is strictly necessary rather than imposing blanket closures. The court further noted that many commuters do not have the luxury of private transport, and bringing services to a complete halt would leave them without any means of travel.
In response to the court's observations, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench that he would consult with the government regarding the proposed restrictions. He assured the court that the measures would be regulated and subject to periodic review depending on the evolving situation on the ground. The court's directive comes amidst reports of planned protests, which had initially prompted the proposed closure of 57 metro station gates and the cancellation of various railway services to New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations.
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