The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a petition that sought directions to the Centre and other authorities to clear blockades on highways in Punjab where farmers are continuing their protests. The petition was heard by a bench led by Justice Surya Kant.
The petition, filed by a social activist from Punjab, called for the removal of restrictions on the ongoing farmers’ protests and sought to ensure that national highways and railway tracks were not obstructed by the demonstrators. The protestors, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (a non-political alliance) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been staging protests at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, 2024, after their march to Delhi was halted by security forces.
The farmers had planned to enter Delhi on December 6, but their march was suspended following the firing of tear gas by the police. The “Dilli Chalo” protest was resumed on December 8, only to be halted again due to similar actions by the authorities.
The petitioners claimed that the blockades have been ongoing at the Shambhu entry point for over a year and have extended to various national and state highways across Punjab. The plea argued that the prolonged disruptions posed a threat to national security, as they obstructed critical military movement towards the northern borders.
Additionally, the petition highlighted the severe inconvenience faced by the people of Punjab and neighboring states, particularly in medical emergencies. Ambulances, it was alleged, were being stopped on both national and state highways, preventing timely access to hospitals.
Despite these concerns, the Supreme Court dismissed the plea, stating no immediate action was required.
