‘If they are roaming free’: Supreme Court on threats to minor CJP protester

The reference apparently was to the video of Swatantra Bharadwaj, which led to his arrest.

“Instead of prosecuting people who accompanied him, an FIR has been filed against the child. This is against this court’s order. We request that the State of UP and NCT of Delhi file a response. Her FIR has been taken by Parliament Street Police Station,” the lawyer added.

She also claimed that the minor’s house was pelted with stones. “We can provide video evidence that her residence was subjected to pelting.”

‘Cause is justified’

She contended that the inquiry by the High-Powered Committee appointed by the top court to probe the police crackdown on student protesters at Jantar Mantar will take time. She sought the court’s urgent intervention, saying that “if she faces some mischief, we will not be able to reverse those things”.

“If there are anti-social elements who indulged in violence against a child, and they are roaming free, and are trying to browbeat the child, that may be a serious thing. Cause is justified. There can’t be a second opinion,” the CJI said.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said he will examine the entire matter. “Whatever is required in the facts of the case can certainly be done,” he added.

To which the CJI said, “A child is a child”. “Some measures to protect the child can be taken. This incident can be taken as a standalone by local police.”

“We would like immediate action on that FIR and police protection to the victim and family by UP police. Investigation be conducted by Parliament Street Police Station,” Justice Bagchi said.

The bench said it will consider the complaints, iron out the issues and, if necessary, further clarify its directions. “We are not in doubt. We will pass an order,” said the CJI.