NEW DELHI — The Delhi High Court is set to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the suspension of mobile internet services around Jantar Mantar, where ongoing youth-led demonstrations over the NEET exam paper leaks have intensified.
The plea was urgently mentioned before a division bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia by the petitioner’s counsel.
"This is a PIL against the internet shutdown at Jantar Mantar," the lawyer urged, requesting an afternoon hearing. The bench agreed to take up the matter at 2:30 PM.
Key Issues & Background Highlights
Protracted Protests: Youth demonstrators and activists under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) have been staging a sit-in at Jantar Mantar since June 20, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over exam irregularities.
Telecom Restrictions Targeted: The petition challenges directives issued by central authorities instructing telecom operators to disable mobile internet networks in parts of Central Delhi, arguing that blanket shutdowns severely impact residents and peaceful demonstrators alike.
Activist Fast: Prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk had joined the agitation in solidarity.
After weeks on an indefinite hunger strike, he was shifted from Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital and later moved to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram under court oversight. Clashes & Police Action: The situation escalated on July 20 during a 'Chalo Sansad' march toward Parliament, resulting in street clashes where police deployed tear gas and lathi-charges against demonstrators.
The petition alleges excessive force was used against young protesters, leading to multiple FIRs across police stations including Connaught Place and Parliament Street.
