Noted Senior Advocate Ashok Bhan has said that Supreme Court has reiterated its resolve to uphold rule of law and Constitutionalism by passing today’s order.
“The Supreme Court’s order passed today by the Bench headed by the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India is a reassuring affirmation of the Constitution’s enduring commitment to the protection of civil liberties, the rule of law and democratic accountability. By recognising the need for a fair, impartial and independent investigation into the allegations of injuries suffered by both students and police personnel during the recet nationwide protests, the Court has once again demonstrated that constitutional rights cannot become casualties of moments of public unrest.” He said.
Bhan said, “The Court’s indication that it may constitute a Special Investigation Team under the leadership of a former Judge of the Supreme Court reflects the seriousness with which it views the issues raised before it. Equally significant are the interim directions for preserving CCTV footage, drone recordings, body-worn camera footage, wireless communications and PCR logs. These measures will help safeguard the integrity of evidence and strengthen public confidence that the truth will emerge through a transparent judicial process rather than through competing narratives.”
Ashok Bhan also added that , “The directions protecting the privacy of student protesters, preventing the disclosure of their personal data, directing the release of students without criminal antecedents, and restraining coercive action against peaceful protesters are deeply rooted in the constitutional guarantees of dignity, liberty, privacy and freedom of expression. These safeguards reinforce the principle that peaceful democratic dissent is an essential feature of our constitutional democracy and that the rights of young citizens deserve vigilant judicial protection.”
“Today’s order is a powerful reminder that the majesty of the Supreme Court lies not merely in its constitutional authority but in its unwavering resolve to uphold justice without fear or favour. At a time when students across the country have sought to voice their concerns through democratic means, the Court has reaffirmed that constitutional remedies remain available to every citizen. This order will strengthen faith in the judiciary as the ultimate guardian of fundamental rights and as the institution entrusted with preserving the constitutional balance between State authority and individual liberty.” He added.
