Karnataka High Court Seeks Details Of Action Taken Against Organisers/Participants Of Farmers Tractor Rally For Violating COVID19 Protocols

A division bench of Chief Justice Abhay Oka and Justice Sachin Shankar Magadum said :

"The State government will file a memo giving details of all the action taken against organizers/participants of the rally/protest held on Jan 26."

The details have to be submitted on February 18. The action for violation of norms is under the Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Act, 2020.

Hundreds of farmers from various parts of Karnataka had reached Bengaluru on January 26, by tractors and other vehicles as part of the 'Jana Ganarajyotsava Parade'. The rally was being held in solidarity with the farmers protesting against the three farm laws in New Delhi.

On January 25, while hearing a petition filed by LETZKIT FOUNDATION, seeking strict implementation of the norms of social distancing and wearing of face mask the court was informed about the huge protest rally planned in the city on Republic day.

The bench had then said "We direct the State Government to ensure that whenever such rallies/protests/gatherings are proposed, it is absolutely necessary that strict implementation of the said Act and the Regulations framed thereunder shall be made. The Commissioner of Police shall issue necessary directions on this behalf."

The court also directed the Registrar Judicial to call upon respondent 5 (Bharatiya Janata Party) and Respondent 9 Janata Dal (S), to appear before the court on the next date of hearing. The bench said "On the failure to remain present before the court on the next date it will be free to initiate appropriate action against them."

The court had earlier issued notice to the political parties-calling upon them to make a statement whether they are willing to issue instructions to its members/followers to strictly abide by the rules regarding wearing of masks and maintaining social distance. The two political parties have failed to appear before the court.

Previously the court had said "Prima facie we are of the view that it is the responsibility of all the political parties to join hands with the machinery of the State for strict implementation of the Rules regarding wearing of masks and maintaining social distancing. Time has come when even the political parties should take the responsibility to issue strict instructions to its party workers."