New Delhi, July 23: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Thursday took note of concerns raised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) regarding the closure of key Delhi Metro stations and assured that he would intervene if the issue was not resolved by lunchtime.
The matter was brought before the CJI led bench by SCBA President Vikas Singh, who highlighted the difficulties being faced by lawyers, litigants and court employees due to restrictions on metro services near the Supreme Court.
Singh informed the court that the closure of the Supreme Court Metro station and other nearby stations was creating inconvenience for those travelling to attend hearings. He requested authorities to allow limited access for individuals connected with court proceedings, including advocates, litigants and Registry officials.
SCBA Suggests Controlled Entry Through Security Checks
The SCBA president proposed that passengers carrying valid Supreme Court entry passes, proximity cards or official identification documents should be permitted to exit at the Supreme Court Metro station after undergoing security verification.
He suggested that commuters could be screened at the exit point of the station, allowing only authorised individuals linked with the court to proceed while preventing misuse of the facility.
“Those coming out of the metro can be screened. People carrying proximity cards and Registry staff can be allowed to exit, while others can be directed to use alternative routes,” Singh told the bench.
CJI Directs Court Administration to Coordinate With Metro Authorities
Responding to the request, Chief Justice Surya Kant said the Supreme Court administration had already been instructed to communicate with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) officials and explore possible solutions.
The CJI said efforts were underway to find a practical arrangement that would ensure smooth movement of lawyers and court staff without affecting security measures.
“I informed them in the morning. It is for them to discuss with the authorities. They are also exploring this as a possible solution. If the matter is resolved by lunchtime, it is fine. Otherwise, if my intervention is needed, I will step in,” the CJI said.
No Adverse Orders Against Lawyers Facing Travel Difficulties
During the hearing, the Chief Justice also clarified that no adverse orders should be passed in cases merely because lawyers were unable to appear due to the prevailing situation.
The direction was aimed at protecting litigants and advocates who might miss court proceedings because of transport restrictions caused by the ongoing protests.
16 Delhi Metro Stations Shut Amid Student Protests
The issue arose after the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation announced the closure of 16 metro stations on Thursday until further notice due to ongoing student protests in the national capital.
Among the stations affected was the Supreme Court Metro station, which serves as an important transit point for advocates, litigants and visitors accessing the apex court.
The temporary shutdown has raised concerns among daily commuters, particularly those dependent on metro connectivity to reach government offices, courts and other institutions in central Delhi.
With the Supreme Court administration engaging with metro authorities, efforts are now focused on finding a balance between maintaining security arrangements and ensuring accessibility for those required to appear before the court.