Supreme Court says farmers have right to protest; Centre says they cannot be simply allowed into capital

The Supreme Court on Friday said that the protesting farmers have a right to voice their grievances, and the authorities including Central and Punjab governments must bring in neutral persons for a resolution of their demands. [The State Of Haryana v. Uday Pratap Singh].A Bench of Justices Surya Kant and R Mahadevan was hearing the Haryana government’s petition challenging Punjab and Haryana High Court’s recent direction to open the Shambhu border - which connects Punjab and Haryana.The border had been closed by the Haryana government to prevent movement of protesters towards Delhi."In a democratic setup, see they have right to voice their grievances," Justice Kant said during the hearing.However, the Court also said the farmers must be persuaded to not to come with certain tractors or JCBs. At this stage, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said,"Protesting farmers cannot be allowed to simply go up to the capital.".The Court then reiterated its suggestion for a dialogue with the farmers through a committee. "Please have a dialogue. Finalise the names (of committee members). There are some very good personalities. Sometimes there may be mind block because you have sent a political person, so think of neutral persons. And both of you suggesting will inspire more confidence among the farmers. Judges are not experts but there may be some former judges with agricultural background (smiles). Some professors, researchers of prominent universities. Try to resolve," it said..The Court had last month impressed upon the government to take steps to reach out to the farmers who were once again planning to march to Delhi to press for their demands.It had asked the Solicitor General to seek instructions regarding constitution of some independent committee in this regard. It had also said that States of Punjab and Haryana can also suggest names of persons who can be part of the Committee.Today, Mehta sought more time to finalise the names. The Court suggested the names should be come from both Central and State governments.While granting more time for the purpose, the Court listed the matter for hearing on August 12."It is pointed out that some modalities are being worked out to implement last order. We have suggested proposal of common names for the committee. They have assured that by the next date such as exercise will be undertaken. Post on August 12, interim arrangements to continue," it ordered..Advocate General Gurminder Singh represented the Punjab government.