The Punjab and Haryana High Court today (20 Feb 2024) informs protesting farmers that the Motor Vehicles Act prohibits the use of tractor trolleys on highways.
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Chandigarh: The Punjab and Haryana High Court today has issued a stern reminder to protesting farmers about the legal restrictions on using tractor trolleys on highways. This directive comes amidst a backdrop of widespread farmer protests, highlighting the complex interplay between fundamental rights and constitutional duties in India.
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The court’s message was clear and unequivocal:
“ACCORDING TO THE MOTOR VEHICLES ACT, YOU CANNOT USE TRACTOR TROLLEYS ON THE HIGHWAY.”
a statement that not only reiterates the letter of the law but also serves as a caution to those involved in the protests. The farmers, who have been vocal in their demands and have utilized tractor trolleys as a means of transport and protest, were specifically told that such practices are not permissible under the Motor Vehicles Act.
During a hearing focused on the farmers’ protest, the court emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional duties alongside the recognition of fundamental rights.
“You are travelling from Amritsar to Delhi on trolleys. Everyone knows their fundamental rights, but there are also some constitutional duties that need to be followed,”
the court remarked, highlighting the balance that needs to be maintained between exercising rights and fulfilling duties.
The judiciary also addressed the Punjab government directly, urging it to ensure that large gatherings are avoided to maintain public order.
“They have the right to protest, but it is subject to reasonable restrictions,”
-the court added, reinforcing the notion that while the right to protest is fundamental, it is not absolute and must be exercised within the bounds of law.
The hearing shed light on the ongoing dialogue between the protesting farmers and the government. The Centre informed the High Court of meetings that had been held with the agitators regarding their demands. In response, the court requested the Central government to submit a detailed affidavit outlining the discussions that took place during these meetings.
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This legal scrutiny comes at a critical juncture, just a day after farmer leaders announced their intention to proceed with their ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, rejecting the government’s proposal to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for five years-a proposal they deemed unsatisfactory. The farmers have been staging protests at strategic points along Punjab’s border with Haryana, including Shambhu and Khanauri, to press the Centre on various demands.
The High Court has adjourned the hearing to the following week, leaving room for further developments in this ongoing saga that pits the right to protest against the imperatives of public safety and order. This case not only highlights the specific issue of using tractor trolleys on highways but also delves into the broader discourse on the limits of protest in a democratic society, the responsibilities of the state, and the rights of its citizens.
As this legal and social drama unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that must be maintained between upholding the law and respecting the voices of dissent, a balance that is crucial for the health and vitality of any democracy.
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