SC to hear case related to RSS rally on March 3, Tamil Nadu government challenges HC decision

The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear Tamil Nadu government's appeal against the Madras High Court order allowing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to take out a march in the state. The Madras High Court had on February 10 allowed the RSS to hold its route march in Tamil Nadu on the rescheduled dates, saying such protest rallies were necessary for a healthy democracy.

A bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice PS Narasimha took note of the submissions of senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the state government, that the petition required urgent hearing as the rally was scheduled to begin on March 5. The petition, filed through advocate Joseph Aristotle, appearing for the state government, said that such an event would create a law and order problem in the state. The state government said that it can impose reasonable restrictions on the fundamental rights of citizens to freedom of speech and assembly in public interest under Article 19(2) of the Constitution.

On October 2 last year, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh had announced to take out a rally. After which the Tamil Nadu government refused to allow the RSS to organize the route march. After this the RSS had moved the High Court. At present, this matter has now reached the Supreme Court.