Chief Justice of India (CJI) Suryakant has officially declined the request for a meeting made by senior Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, along with other prominent figures of the INDIA bloc. The meeting was sought for Monday, October 12, to discuss several pressing issues. However, the CJI's office has clarified that such a meeting can't take place under the current circumstances, suggesting instead that the leaders approach the court through the proper judicial channel by filing a formal petition if they wish to present their grievances.
Reasons for Refusal and Judicial Protocol
The request for the meeting was initiated by opposition leaders who intended to express their deep concerns regarding alleged electoral irregularities, the Special Investigation Report (SIR) process, and the recent police actions taken against protesters in the national capital. In response to this request, the office of the Chief Justice sent an email outlining the specific reasons why the meeting couldn't be granted. The communication emphasized that the matter concerning the SIR is currently sub-judice, meaning it's under active consideration by the court on the judicial side.
The email further explained that CJI Suryakant himself is presiding over the bench that's hearing this particular case, while consequently, the Chief Justice can't issue any directions or hold meetings regarding the matter from the administrative side of the court's functions. The office stated that if Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, or any other leaders wish to place their views or concerns before the court, they're required to follow the established legal procedure of filing a petition. It was noted that the case is already listed for hearing on Tuesday, and the leaders have the opportunity to file their petition by then, which will be duly considered by the court.
Rahul Gandhi's Allegations and Call for Action
Prior to the refusal of the meeting, Rahul Gandhi had taken to the social media platform X to voice his concerns. He stated that the youth of the country had gathered on the streets of Delhi the previous day for a peaceful protest. According to his post, these protesters carried love in their hearts rather than hatred or anger. Despite this, he alleged that they were subjected to violence and were beaten by the police and individuals he described as goons associated with the BJP.
Following these allegations, Rahul Gandhi announced a significant move, declaring that on Monday, October 12, they would march to the Supreme Court as Indians. He emphasized that this march would transcend all barriers of political parties, gender, caste, community, and state, representing a unified front of the people moving forward together to seek justice and accountability.
Security Measures and Prohibitory Orders in Delhi
In anticipation of the announced protests and the march to the Supreme Court, the Delhi authorities have taken strict security measures. Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) has been imposed in several areas across Delhi to prohibit unauthorized gatherings and demonstrations. Police officials have justified this move by citing the necessity to maintain public safety and protect property from potential disturbances. The opposition parties, meanwhile, continue to raise serious questions regarding the functioning of the Election Commission and the special intensive revision of the voter list, which remain central to their ongoing protests and legal concerns.