Punjab and Haryana High Court Urges Amicable Settlement in ‘Delhi Chalo’ March Case

Punjab and Haryana High Court Urges Amicable Settlement in 'Delhi Chalo' March Case

VoM News Desk | February 13, 2024 | 06:16 PM IST | Breaking News, Courts & Law | Follow on Google News

Punjab and Haryana High Court Urges Amicable Settlement in ‘Delhi Chalo’ March Case

Punjab and Haryana High Court Urges Amicable Settlement in ‘Delhi Chalo’ March Case

Court Calls for Balancing Fundamental Rights and Maintaining Law and Order

In a hearing on petitions related to the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march by farmers, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has called for an amicable settlement. The court emphasized the need for a balance between the farmers’ right to protest and the public’s right to free movement. It urged all parties to identify specific areas for peaceful protests, emphasizing that the use of force should be the last resort. The court sought a status report from the Centre, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi governments on the ongoing protest. The matter is adjourned till Thursday.

Differing Petitions Addressed by the Court

Two PILs Presented

The court addressed two PILs regarding the farmers’ protest—one highlighting the violation of the right to free movement and the other emphasizing the inconvenience caused by the march. The first petition argued that preventing farmers from reaching Delhi violates their democratic rights, while the second expressed concerns about the public’s inconvenience and urged that no one should block national highways.

Government Responses

Centre Ready for Negotiations

The Centre stated its readiness for negotiations, including discussing the farmers’ demand for a law on minimum support price (MSP). The Haryana government explained its actions, citing the need to maintain law and order, especially considering past incidents during farmers’ protests. The Punjab government acknowledged the merit in farmers’ demands and assured arrangements for peaceful protests.

Court’s Stand and Future Actions

Balancing Rights and Ensuring Law and Order

The court emphasized the importance of balancing the farmers’ right to protest with the state’s duty to maintain law and order. It urged Punjab and Haryana to designate specific protest areas, emphasizing the rights of both protesters and the general public. The court adjourned the matter to Thursday, calling for an amicable resolution before then.

Investigations are ongoing regarding the farmers’ protest, with reports of the use of drones and the deployment of tear gas. The court’s stance aims to address the concerns raised while promoting a peaceful resolution.

VoM News Desk

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