The Supreme Court of India has informed that it will announce order on the farmers’ protest in the country and the three farm laws on Tuesday.
Earlier in the day, the Court was hearing a batch of petitions seeking removal of protesting farmers from Delhi borders and another set of petitions challenging the three farm laws.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) SA Bobde told Attorney General KK Venugopal that the Court was disappointed on the central government’s handling of the farmers’ protest.
“We don’t know what process you followed before the laws,” Justice Bobde said, adding that the many states are up in rebellion.
The CJI also enquired about the negotiations and said that the Court wants a solution for the problem.
“Our intention is very clear. We want an amicable solution for the problem,” Justice Bobde said.
The CJI asked whether the Centre would put the three farm laws on hold or the Court would do it. He added that the central government isn't handling the issue effectively. “We don't see you dealing with this issue effectively. We are taking a decision today,” Justice Bobde said.
“Each one of us is responsible if anything goes wrong. We don't want any injuries or blood on our hands,” the CJI said.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta had sought the Court permission to intervene in the hearing. The SG said that many farmers organizations came and told that they felt the laws are progressive and the rest of the farmers have no difficulty. However, the CJI responded stating that there was not a single petition before him saying that the laws are good.
Justice Bobde said the situation was getting worse as many were committing suicide and many are suffering in the cold.
The Court ordered a stay on the implementation of the laws and proposed setting up a committee which will be led by a former Chief Justice.
Justice Bobde said that farmers can tell their grievances to the committee and the committee will file a report following which the Court will decide on the implementations of the laws.
Towards the end of the hearing, the CJI said that they will pass orders soon. The SG responded saying there is no hurry in passing the order and pass it tomorrow. The CJI sternly told the SG not to lecture the Court on patience.
“Why not? We have given you a long rope. Don’t lecture us on patience. We will decide when to pass an order,” Justice Bobde said.
