Hyderabad: Senior journalist and National President of the Print & Electronic Media Association, Sudhakar, has welcomed the significant observations made by the three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice of India Justice Suryakant, during the hearing of petitions related to the recent ‘Sansad Chalo’ student movement.
Speaking on the occasion, Sudhakar described the Supreme Court’s remarks as a strong reaffirmation of democratic values and constitutional principles. He appreciated the Bench’s observation that “Listening is the strongest weapon,” urging authorities to patiently hear the grievances of protesters rather than responding with force. The Court’s emphasis on counselling and dialogue instead of aggression towards misguided youth reflects the spirit of a mature democracy, he said.
Sudhakar further noted that the Supreme Court’s principle that “Violence cannot be answered with violence” provides an important roadmap for maintaining law and order while respecting citizens’ democratic rights. He said such guidance would help governments and law enforcement agencies handle public protests with greater restraint and accountability.
He also welcomed the Court’s directions to preserve CCTV footage, drone recordings, body-camera videos and PCR logs during protest-related operations, describing them as vital safeguards for ensuring transparency and accountability. Equally significant, he said, was the Court’s instruction that the personal information of protesters should not be disclosed, thereby protecting their privacy and constitutional rights.
Calling the Court’s stand a major relief for students, Sudhakar praised its observation that minors with no criminal background should be released immediately and that harsh action should not be taken against ordinary students. He also welcomed the clarification that State governments have the discretion to withdraw FIRs in appropriate cases.
Sudhakar said the Supreme Court’s willingness to consider an independent probe into incidents involving alleged baton charges would further strengthen public confidence in the judiciary. He urged governments and police authorities across the country to implement the Court’s guidelines in both letter and spirit.
Appealing for a culture of dialogue, Sudhakar stressed that public issues should be resolved through discussions rather than suppression. He called upon all stakeholders to protect the constitutional right to peaceful protest and ensure that the nation’s youth become active partners in building India’s democratic future.
