Case: The State Of Haryana v. Uday Pratap Singh
On Friday, the Supreme Court stated that protesting farmers have the right to express their grievances and urged the Central and Punjab governments to involve neutral parties in resolving their demands.
A Bench of Justices Surya Kant and R. Mahadevan was hearing the Haryana government’s petition challenging the recent direction by the Punjab and Haryana High Court to open the Shambhu border, which connects Punjab and Haryana. The Haryana government had closed the border to prevent protesters from moving towards Delhi.
"In a democratic setup, see they have the right to voice their grievances," Justice Kant remarked during the hearing.
However, the Court also noted that farmers should be persuaded not to come with certain tractors or JCBs.
At this stage, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated, "Protesting farmers cannot be allowed to simply go up to the capital."
The Court reiterated its suggestion for a dialogue with the farmers through a committee.
"Please have a dialogue. Finalise the names (of committee members). There are some very good personalities. Sometimes there may be a mind block because you have sent a political person, so think of neutral persons. And both of you suggesting will inspire more confidence among the farmers. Judges are not experts, but there may be some former judges with an agricultural background (smiles). Some professors, researchers from prominent universities. Try to resolve," it said.
Last month, the Court had urged the government to reach out to the farmers, who were planning another march to Delhi to press for their demands. It had asked the Solicitor General to seek instructions regarding the constitution of an independent committee and suggested that the States of Punjab and Haryana also propose names for the committee.
Today, Mehta requested more time to finalize the names. The Court suggested that the names should come from both the Central and State governments.
While granting more time, the Court scheduled the next hearing for August 12.
"It is pointed out that some modalities are being worked out to implement the last order. We have suggested the proposal of common names for the committee. They have assured that by the next date such an exercise will be undertaken. Post on August 12, interim arrangements to continue," it ordered.
Advocate General Gurminder Singh represented the Punjab government.
TAGS: Supreme Court Punjab And Haryana High Court Farmers' Protest Capital Contempt Plea
