CJI May Intervene if SC Metro Stays Shut Amid NEET Protests

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has assured legal professionals that he is prepared to intervene if the Supreme Court Metro station remains closed, causing significant disruption for those trying to reach the apex court. The assurance came amidst concerns raised over the shutdown of several Delhi Metro stations due to ongoing student protests related to the NEET examination. This situation has made it challenging for lawyers, litigants, and court staff to access the Supreme Court.

The issue was brought to the attention of a bench led by the Chief Justice by Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Vikas Singh. Singh highlighted that the closure of key Metro stations, including the Supreme Court station, had severely hampered access to the court premises.

Responding to these concerns, CJI Surya Kant stated, "If nothing is done by lunchtime to reopen them, and if the DMRC has not taken any action by then, we will look into the matter." He further assured the Bar that he would intervene if required. The Chief Justice also made it clear that no adverse judicial orders would be passed simply because lawyers were unable to reach the court due to the Metro shutdown.

CJI Surya Kant also mentioned that the Supreme Court administration had already been directed to communicate with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to find a resolution. "I informed them in the morning. It is up to them to talk to the authorities. He is exploring this also as one of the solutions. By lunchtime, if there is a solution, that is fine. Otherwise, if my intervention is required, I will do," he reiterated. During the hearing, Vikas Singh suggested implementing a restricted-access arrangement for lawyers as a possible solution.

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