Why is Jantar Mantar in Delhi facing scrutiny?, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• The Delhi High Court recently expressed concerns over the continued use of Jantar Mantar as the designated protest site in Delhi.
• The Supreme Court had previously directed the Centre to consider Ramlila Maidan as the principal venue for protests instead of Jantar Mantar.
• Jantar Mantar has served as a central location for democratic dissent in Delhi for over three decades.
• Its proximity to Parliament allows protesters visibility to the political establishment while remaining outside high-security zones.

Detailed Insights:

• Protests at Jantar Mantar are held on the road opposite the 18th-century astronomical observatory, at the intersection of Jantar Mantar Road and Sansad Marg.
• Before the 1990s, the Boat Club lawns along Rajpath (now Kartavya Path) was Delhi's primary venue for large demonstrations.
• A massive farmers' rally in 1988 at the Boat Club lawns led to security and disruption concerns, prompting the Delhi administration to discontinue large protests there.
• Delhi Police Standing Order 309, issued in 2003, formally designated Jantar Mantar and Ramlila Maidan as official protest sites.
• This order stipulated Jantar Mantar for gatherings under 5,000 people, Ramlila Maidan for 5,000-50,000, and Burari grounds for larger crowds.
• In 2017, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) directed a halt to protests at Jantar Mantar, citing noise pollution, traffic congestion, and its residential area status.
• The Supreme Court in 2018 ruled against a complete ban on protests at Jantar Mantar or Boat Club, directing authorities to balance protest rights with public order.
• Subsequently, Delhi Police Standing Order 10 (2018) demarcated Jantar Mantar for up to 1,000 people, with Ramlila Maidan for larger numbers.
• While Jantar Mantar is free, Ramlila Maidan is an enclosed, more secure venue but costs approximately ₹50,000 per day for use.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Right to Protest: A fundamental right enshrined in the Indian Constitution, allowing citizens to express dissent peacefully.
• Public Order: The maintenance of peace, safety, and tranquility in society, a responsibility of the state.
• Designated Protest Site: A specific location officially allocated by authorities for public demonstrations and gatherings.
• Standing Order: A set of rules or instructions issued by an authority to regulate procedures and conduct within its jurisdiction.