"No One Above Law": Court Orders Making Rules For Rallies By Political Parties
The Madras High Court on Wednesday directed the Tamil Nadu government to frame uniform guidelines applicable to all political parties for granting permission to hold rallies and public meetings.
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The Madras High Court has taken serious action regarding damage to public property allegedly caused during TVK's political rally in Tiruchi.
Chennai:
On Wednesday, the Madras High Court instructed the Tamil Nadu government to establish uniform guidelines that would apply to all political organizations seeking permission for rallies and public gatherings. The court also ordered that these guidelines include provisions requiring deposits to cover potential damage to public property.
This directive came during proceedings for a petition submitted by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the political party headed by actor Vijay. TVK claimed that police had imposed "strict and impossible conditions" for their rallies that were not required of other political groups.
Representing TVK, Senior advocate V Raghavachari argued that officials had mandated unreasonable restrictions, such as dictating the routes party supporters should take after rallies, limiting vehicle numbers, and prohibiting attendance by pregnant women and differently-abled individuals. "How can we prevent them from attending?" he questioned, arguing that these selective requirements constituted discrimination.
After hearing the arguments, Justice N Sathish Kumar asked whether such conditions were being uniformly applied to all political parties. "No one is above the law. Public meetings must operate within legal parameters. If traffic is completely blocked, won't the public experience hardship?" the judge remarked.
The court expressed significant concern about reported damage to public property during TVK's September 13 rally in Tiruchi. Police presented photographic evidence showing party supporters climbing structures and causing disruptions. "If something unfortunate had occurred, who would accept responsibility? As party president, Vijay should maintain control over crowds," stated the judge, inquiring whether compensation had been collected for damages.
The judge also advised that leaders should demonstrate responsible behavior by encouraging pregnant women and persons with disabilities to avoid large gatherings for safety reasons.
In ordering the state to develop comprehensive regulations, the court specified that guidelines should require parties to provide a deposit to cover potential damages. The government must submit its report by September 24.
The petition was initially filed by TVK deputy general secretary CTR Nirmal Kumar, requesting that the Director General of Police (DGP) ensure rally applications are processed without discrimination throughout Tamil Nadu. TVK has announced that Vijay will campaign every Saturday and Sunday from September 20 to December 20 across the state.
Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are scheduled for next year.