Farm Leader Says Deboarded From Train Over Protests, Court Junks Plea
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court disposed of a petition filed by farmer leader P Ayyakannu, who alleged repeated obstruction of his travel to New Delhi to participate in protests.
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- From: India News Bull
Chennai:
On Tuesday, the Madras High Court's Madurai Bench dismissed a petition filed by farmer leader P Ayyakannu, who claimed repeated interference with his travel to New Delhi for protest participation.
In delivering the judgment, Justice B Pugalendhi highlighted that while the Constitution protects citizens' rights to move freely and protest peacefully under Article 19, these freedoms are subject to reasonable limitations.
The AllegationAyyakannu, who heads a farmers' welfare association, informed the court that despite possessing valid tickets, he and his associates were forced off trains multiple times, including incidents at Chengalpattu and in Madhya Pradesh. He contended these actions were calculated efforts to prevent their involvement in peaceful demonstrations in Delhi.
The petitioner referenced his previous activism efforts, including a 141-day demonstration at Jantar Mantar, a 2017 protest at Parliament Street, and a farmers' awareness march from Kanyakumari to Chennai in 2018.
Government's PositionTamil Nadu authorities contested his petition, claiming Ayyakannu regularly violated permit conditions, caused public disturbances, and conducted protests using provocative methods, including displays of human skulls and bones. Officials stated that 73 cases have been registered against him throughout the years.
Judicial RemarksThe Court referenced the historical incident of Mahatma Gandhi being removed from a train, noting that such events previously ignited movements that transformed the nation.
Citing Supreme Court precedent, the court affirmed that "peaceful protest is a cherished democratic right," while emphasizing that demonstrations must comply with legal requirements.
The ruling specified that railway authorities cannot remove passengers with valid tickets merely because they intend to protest. It also stated that citizens must secure prior authorization and comply with stipulated conditions during demonstrations, noting that individuals may pursue legal action against officials for unlawful interference.
DecisionIn dismissing the petition, the court emphasized the balance between fundamental rights and responsibilities, stating that while Ayyakannu has the right to protest, such activities must remain within legal boundaries.