LEXQORE | Legal News & Analysis
October 18, 2026 | Supreme Court of India
The Supreme Court of India has issued notice to the Election Commission of India (ECI), Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi on petitions filed by INDIA bloc leaders challenging aspects of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Court has also taken up separate petitions concerning police action against protesters, restrictions on public gatherings and the removal of Jantar Mantar’s status as a designated protest site.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi is examining multiple matters arising from the recent demonstrations in Delhi, including allegations of excessive police action and restrictions affecting political activists, journalists and lawyers.
Challenge to the Special Intensive Revision
The INDIA bloc leaders have challenged decisions taken by the Election Commission in connection with the SIR exercise, alleging irregularities in the electoral-roll revision process.
By issuing notice, the Supreme Court has sought responses from the election authorities. The notice does not amount to a finding that the allegations are established; the issues remain subject to judicial consideration.
Petitions Over Police Action and Protest Restrictions
The Court has also considered petitions concerning detentions during protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and restrictions imposed in Delhi around the demonstrations.
In earlier proceedings, the Court directed authorities to prevent illegal detention, maintain free movement subject to lawful traffic regulations, and ensure that Metro and railway services function normally unless restrictions are legally necessary. It also sought responses from the Centre, Delhi Police and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation.
Jantar Mantar’s Status as a Protest Site
A separate petition challenges the decision to remove Jantar Mantar’s designation as a protest site. The Supreme Court has sought the authorities’ response but has not ordered its immediate restoration.
The proceedings raise questions about how public order measures should be balanced against citizens’ constitutional rights to assemble peacefully and express their views.
Court Orders Preservation of Evidence
The Supreme Court has also directed the preservation of CCTV footage and other digital evidence connected with the protests. This may assist the Court in examining allegations concerning detentions, police conduct and the events surrounding the demonstrations.
Conclusion
The proceedings bring electoral-roll revision, police accountability and the right to peaceful protest before the Supreme Court. The notices issued to the ECI and other authorities provide an opportunity for the respondents to present their positions before the Court considers the challenges further.
LEXQORE | Legal News & Analysis
Comments
Be the first to comment.