The Supreme Court on Wednesday reprimanded the Delhi Police for their lack of professionalism in controlling the violence in the Northeast district of Delhi.
While hearing a petition, Justice KM Joseph said, “The police need to take action like they do in England. Things are happening before them.” He also mentioned about the clearing of the road in Shaheen bagh, which has been blocked for more than two months due to protest against Citizenship (Amendment) Act or CAA.
“I must say certain things because my loyalty lies to the institution. The problem is lack of professionalism and independence of police. Why do police wait for somebody’s nod to act in accordance with law?” asked Justice Joseph.
“The moment an inflammatory remark is made, police should take action. Not just Delhi, any state for that matter. Police should act as per law,” he further added.
When Solicitor General Tushar Mehta urged the court to not make any adverse observation on Delhi violence as it could demoralise the police force, the judge said the remarks are made not in adversarial context but to ensure law and order is maintained.
The bench, however, said the environment is not conducive right now to pass any order.
“It is time for all parties and stakeholders to lower their temperatures,” said Justice Kaul and posted the matter for further hearing on March 23.
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The judges also made it clear that it will confine the hearing to Shaheen Bagh road blockade and while violence in other parts of Delhi is really unfortunate, “this bench will not go into that”.
It, therefore, disposed of applications which had urged court to pass orders on violence that has gripped the national capital.