Supreme Court Says Listening Not Force Is Better Way to Handle Student Protests

The Supreme Court has said that authorities must show restraint while dealing with young student protesters. The Court said that if the State responds violently to stop violence, it may only make the situation worse and lead to more tension.

The remarks were made by a Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant while hearing a plea seeking action against the Cockroach Janta Party over alleged violence during student protests in Delhi and other parts of the country, including stone-pelting allegations.

The Court said that in a democracy, peaceful marches and protests should be handled carefully. According to the Chief Justice, authorities should “tread very carefully” so that young people do not move towards violence.

The Court also said that the strongest response is not force, but listening. It said authorities should listen to what the students are saying and understand why they are protesting.

The Supreme Court added that young protesters may need counselling, advice and peaceful handling instead of an aggressive response from the State. The Court warned that aggression by authorities may unnecessarily worsen the situation and create further violence.

At the same time, the Court did not say that violence by protesters should be ignored. Reports said the Court made it clear that incidents like stone-pelting cannot be accepted and those responsible can be dealt with according to law.

The Court tagged this case with other pending petitions related to student protest violence, meaning similar matters will be heard together. It also said law enforcement agencies are better placed to handle ground situations, and the Court will consider the Central Government’s stand on the next hearing date.