SC concerned over loss of life, assets during agitations.... no one has been given the right to damage public property and indulge in violence which result in loss of lives- SC

SNS, NEW DELHI, 28 November: Expressing concern over the loss of lives and damage to public property during agitators, the Supreme Court today asked Centre to create courts in every state and union territory to fix accountability for vandalism and compensate the victims of such violent protests.

The top court suggested to the Centre that one or more district judges should be given responsibilities in consultation with respective High Courts to prosecute and fix civil liabilities on those responsible for such mayhem.

It favoured criminal action against leaders of such organisations or political patties, whose members would indulge in destruction of public or private properties.

A bench of Justices Adarsh Kumar Goel and U U Lalit said although guidelines have been framed by the apex court in 2009 (rpt 2009), which include videography of such agitations, but there exists no mechanism to deal with the damages to be paid to the victim."These agitations,which result in damage to life and properties, are now happening very often. If it is to be dealt by High Court or Supreme Court, then it will become very difficult. There should be some forum where people can go and seek remedy as per law," the bench said.

The bench's order came on a plea filed by advocate Koshy Jacob, who sought implementation of 2009 (rpt 2009) guidelines of the apex court with regard to the procedure to be adopted by administration during such agitations and submitting of report to the high Courts and Supreme Court.

The top court said that although the Constitution has given the right to people to assemble freely and peaceful protest, but no one has been given the right to damage public property and indulge in violence which result in loss of lives.