The protesting farmers have received criticism from the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The court questioned the use of tractor trolleys in the protests during the hearing. Farmers have other options if they wish to demonstrate in a nonviolent manner. In addition, he asked the Punjabi government, “Why are you letting the farmers congregate?”
Right to Protest but with Restrictions
“They have the right to protest, but it is subject to appropriate restrictions,” the court ruled. The Centre informed the High Court during the hearing that a meeting was held to discuss the demands of the agitated farmers.
The central government was questioned by the court regarding the proceedings of the meetings and asked to submit a fresh affidavit with all of the details. The hearing was postponed until next week by the High Court.
The High Court was informed on Thursday by Additional Solicitor General Satyapal Jain that another meeting between Union Ministers and representatives of farmers’ organisations has been scheduled. Many people are optimistic that this meeting will result in a resolution to the issue. Regarding this, the High Court had stated that no orders should be made until after the conclusion of this meeting. The High Court has scheduled this case’s hearing for Tuesday in light of the circumstances. With the status report, each defendant must be present today.
ACJ Sandhawalia also expressed disapproval of farmers traveling in tractors and trolleys to demonstrate during the hearing. “According to Motor Vehicle Act, you cannot use tractors and trolleys on highway…you are travelling on your tractors and trolleys from Amritsar to Delhi…everyone knows about their rights but there are also constitutional duties,” the ACJ stated.
As per the input from LiveLaws