Delhi High Court Halts Proceedings Against Prominent Politicians Over Protest

The Delhi High Court has paused trial court proceedings against political figures, including Rahul Gandhi, KC Venugopal, and Akhilesh Yadav, related to a 2025 protest at Jantar Mantar. The protest, reportedly held without official permission, challenges certain UGC guidelines. The court seeks a response from Delhi Police on the matter.

In a significant move, the Delhi High Court has temporarily halted proceedings in the case involving several prominent Indian politicians, such as Congress MPs Rahul Gandhi, KC Venugopal, and Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, in relation to a protest against draft UGC guidelines held at Jantar Mantar in February 2025. The demonstration, allegedly conducted without permission, has been brought under legal scrutiny.

Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani has alerted the Delhi police, demanding a reply regarding the quashing petition and request for a temporary stay. Scheduled for an August 12 hearing, the case remains with the Rouse Avenue Court despite a filed charge sheet. Notably, the court has yet to acknowledge the accusations formally.

Senior advocate Amit Anand Tiwari, representing DMK leader CVMP Ezhilarasan, argued that multiple requests for protest permits were submitted, with oral approvals reportedly granted. Subject to Section 223(a) BNS, the protestors face allegations despite the claim of a peaceful demonstration. Additionally, a report was filed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police following a court directive to assess the protest's legality and procedures.

(With inputs from agencies.)