Mysuru: The Karnataka High Court on Friday allowed the Hindu Jagarana Vedike to conduct its ‘Akhanda Bharatha Sankalpa Diwas’ torchlight procession in Mysuru on the eve of Independence Day, while holding the organisers responsible for ensuring that the march remained peaceful.
Justice Suraj Govindaraj directed authorities to permit the procession from RMC Ganesha Temple to Doddagadiyara Circle between 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm on August 14.
Court sets conditions for the march
The organisers had challenged the police decision refusing permission for the procession. The State had opposed the plea, citing concerns over traffic, ambulance movement and possible disturbances to public order.
The State had also referred to criminal cases involving some organisers and raised concerns over banners allegedly being displayed before permission was granted.
The organisers assured the court that they would follow reasonable conditions and take responsibility for the peaceful conduct of the procession.
The court noted that around 100 people were expected to participate in the nearly four-kilometre march. It directed participants to proceed in an orderly manner, with around five people in each row and sufficient space being maintained for vehicular movement.
Criminal cases not enough to deny permission
The High Court rejected the argument that criminal proceedings against some organisers alone could prevent them from participating in Independence Day celebrations.
The court observed that the filing of chargesheets did not, by itself, mean that such individuals could be barred from participating in the celebrations.
The Bench also warned the organisers that they would be responsible if any untoward incident occurred during the procession.
Nine organisers had been identified in a memo filed on August 12, along with their Aadhaar details, to ensure accountability for the peaceful conduct of the event.
Stage programme needs separate permission
The High Court quashed the police endorsement refusing permission and allowed the torchlight procession subject to the conditions imposed.
However, the court clarified that its order did not permit any stage programme. The organisers would have to obtain separate permission from the competent authorities for such an event.