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Delhi High Court Dismisses PIL on Parliamentary Security Review

The Delhi High Court has rejected a public interest litigation aimed at reviewing the security framework of Parliament, asserting that such matters are under the government's purview. The court emphasized that it cannot instruct Parliament to conduct security reviews, highlighting the responsibility of the government in these matters. Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyay raised concerns about the increasing number of PILs being filed for publicity rather than genuine issues, pointing out that there are numerous other pressing public safety concerns that require attention. This decision underscores the court's stance on maintaining the separation of powers between the judiciary and legislative bodies.
 

Court Rejects PIL Regarding Parliamentary Security

The Delhi High Court declined to hear a public interest litigation (PIL) on Wednesday that sought a comprehensive review of the current institutional framework responsible for the security and operational integrity of India's Parliament. The court stated that such matters fall entirely within the jurisdiction of the government and Parliament. Dismissing the petition, the bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyay and Justice Tejas Karia remarked that the responsibility for Parliament's security lies with the government, and the court cannot mandate Parliament to periodically review its security framework. The court questioned how such an order could be issued, emphasizing that it is Parliament's duty to conduct these reviews as needed.


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The PIL requested that the central government conduct a thorough assessment of the administrative, institutional, operational, technical, and cybersecurity mechanisms of Parliament in light of evolving security challenges. The petitioner also urged officials to review a concept note they prepared titled "Proposed Framework for the India Parliament (Security, Sanctity, and Protection) Act, 2026." During the hearing, the bench raised questions regarding the maintainability of the PIL.


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Chief Justice Upadhyay commented, urging not to involve the court in such matters... Why only Parliament? What is this? There is no extraordinary situation. Everyone is filing PILs merely for publicity. The court also noted that there are many other significant issues related to public safety. The Chief Justice pointed out that one does not see stampedes at railway stations, nor do they notice security issues at airports, or the safety of pedestrians.