Supreme Court Questions UP Magistrate's Notice to Student Despite Its Bar
SC questions UP magistrate's notice to student Akshat Tripathi seeking ₹5 lakh bond over alleged anti-government propaganda linked to NEET-UG protests.
The Supreme Court has taken exception to a notice issued by a Uttar Pradesh magistrate to a student, Akshat Tripathi, asking him to explain why he should not furnish a ₹5 lakh personal bond. The notice relates to allegations of spreading anti-government propaganda and inciting university students to join protests over the NEET-UG examination.
The court's concern stems from the fact that the notice appears to have been issued despite an existing order from the apex court that bars such coercive steps against students participating in peaceful protests. The magistrate's action has been questioned for potentially running counter to the protection granted by the Supreme Court.
The notice specifically accuses Tripathi of involvement in activities that could disrupt public order in connection with the ongoing demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. The demand for a personal bond of ₹5 lakh has been flagged as an unusual and heavy requirement for a student.
The development adds another layer to the legal scrutiny surrounding the handling of student protests related to the NEET-UG controversy. The Supreme Court's intervention signals a strict review of administrative actions that may undermine its earlier directives aimed at safeguarding students from undue harassment.