The Supreme Court made significant observations on the right to peaceful protest while hearing petitions seeking nationwide guidelines on police action during demonstrations. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said peaceful protests are constitutionally protected and police excesses, including lathi charges, cannot be justified merely because an agitation is underway. The Court stressed the need for a uniform national protocol to balance citizens' right to protest with public order and the safety of both protesters and police personnel. The hearing follows allegations of excessive force during the Jantar Mantar and Bihar protests over paper leaks. The matter will be heard again on July 28.
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