The Bombay HC ruled that demonstrations or rallies at the Azad Maidan must be confined to a fenced area within the ground.
MUMBAI: The Bombay high court on Thursday ruled that demonstrations or rallies at the Azad Maidan must be confined to a fenced area within the ground.
The order, passed by a bench comprising Chief Justice HS Bedi and Justice VM Kanade, makes the pitch out of bounds for gatherings. The court also prohibited the installation of temporary structures, such as tents, on the ground.
Hearing a public interest petition filed by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), the court had earlier directed the deputy director (encroachments) to remove hutments from Azad Maidan.
The MCA’s petition had also complained about the disruption of play caused by protest meetings that often spilt on to the pitches. The court dealt with the grievance by restricting public gatherings to a 25,000 sq ft area.
The verdict has been welcomed by the sporting fraternity. Ratnakar Shetty, MCA treasurer, said: “We are happy. This move will protect the playing area. Now we will spend money to maintain the ground as it will be used for the right purpose.”
“There can’t be a better decision,” said Adille Sumariwala, former sprint champion. “Sports grounds have been used for everything but sports.” Kehar Singh, secretary of the Bombay Hockey Association, also hailed the ruling.
The court held that rules could be relaxed for the Mumbai Marathon scheduled to be held in January. Tents for medical assistance to runners will be allowed, but vehicles will be banned.
Events powered by religious or patriotic sentiments will also enjoy special privileges. Government pleader Amjad Sayed had contended that under the Maharashtra Town Planning Act, the state can put up stages for religious functions, leaders’ anniversaries, and Independence and Republic Day celebrations. The court said the government could sanction such events at its discretion.
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