On Friday, the Supreme Court affirmed that protesting farmers have the right to express their grievances, and emphasized that both the Central and Punjab governments must involve impartial individuals to address their demands.
The division bench comprising, Justices Surya Kant and R. Mahadevan were reviewing a petition from the Haryana government, which contested the recent order from the Punjab and Haryana High Court to reopen the Shambhu border—an essential link between Punjab and Haryana. The Haryana government had previously closed the border to prevent protesters from moving towards Delhi.
"In a democratic setup, see they have right to voice their grievances," Justice Kant said during the hearing.
However, the Court also noted that efforts should be made to persuade the farmers not to bring certain types of equipment, such as tractors or JCBs, to the protests. At this point, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated, "Protesting farmers cannot be permitted to simply proceed to the capital."
"Please have a dialogue. Finalise the names (of committee members). There are some very good personalities. Sometimes there may be 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 agricultural background (smiles). Some professors, researchers of prominent universities. Try to resolve," it said.
Website designed, developed and maintained by webexy