supreme-court-open-to-all-says-cji-surya-kant-amid-protest

Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant said every Indian citizen has the right to approach the courts and that the Supreme Court remains open to petitions from citizens and elected representatives.

 

His remarks came on Monday as the INDIA bloc prepared to march to the Supreme Court in protest against the Election Commission over alleged irregularities in the electoral process.

 

Speaking to reporters after the 33rd Foundation Day function of the National Human Rights Commission, Justice Surya Kant said he had received a request from the opposition bloc for a meeting on Sunday and had replied the same night.

 

“I received a letter yesterday regarding a meeting request, and I responded to it last night, outlining the reasons why I will be unable to meet,” he said.

The CJI said any citizen or member of an elected body could seek legal relief from the court. He added that petitions from ordinary citizens and elected representatives would be heard and relief would be granted wherever it was due under the law.

 

Justice Surya Kant had earlier declined a request from INDIA bloc leaders to meet them over their representation concerning alleged electoral irregularities. He advised them to file a petition before the court, noting that the issue was already sub judice.

 

A detailed response explaining the decision was sent to the opposition leaders by email. It stated that the concerns raised by Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other members of the delegation would be better addressed through judicial proceedings instead of an administrative memorandum.

 

The Congress and other opposition parties are scheduled to take part in the march to the Supreme Court on Monday as part of their continuing campaign against the Election Commission. The INDIA bloc has sought accountability from the poll panel over the alleged irregularities.

 

Security arrangements have been strengthened across central Delhi ahead of the protest. Barricades have been placed at multiple locations, while entry and exit at certain Metro stations will remain closed until 4 pm on 12 October 2026, as a security measure.

 

Security personnel have been deployed along Barakhamba Road and in the vicinity of Mandi House. Delhi Police personnel are being supported by the Rapid Action Force and the Central Reserve Police Force.