The Supreme Court on Thursday issued notice to the Union Government on a petition filed by advocate Bhanu Sanoriya seeking directions that those who organise protests or call for agitations should take responsibility for the consequences caused to others.

The petitioner, represented by Senior Advocate Atmaram Nadkarni, came up before the Court, seeking to hold organisers accountable for the impact of protests on the public.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta agreed with the prayer and stated that whoever organises a protest or gives a call for one should bear responsibility for the consequences suffered by others in accessing essential services or other consequences because of protests.

Mr Nadkarni submitted that the plea was intended to present a neutral perspective on the issue, referring to difficulties faced by a lawyer and the broader consequences of agitations. The Court observed that the petition raised an important question concerning the responsibility of those who call for protests. He argued that people organising agitations cannot hold the public to ransom through their actions.

“People hold agitations, you hold everybody to ransom,” he submitted.

The Bench accordingly issued notice to the Centre, asking the union to file its response to the plea.