Calcutta High Court Supports Traffic Restrictions for Yoga Day Event

Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court has upheld the Kolkata Police's decision to regulate vehicular movement on Red Road from June 14 to June 21 for the International Day of Yoga. The court, however, raised questions about the choice of venue, asking why the event could not be organised at the Brigade Parade Ground instead.

The matter was brought before the court by an advocates’ association, represented by senior advocate Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharyya, who challenged the decision to block the road for eight days. Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya, presiding over the case, directed the police to ensure alternative routes for commuters during the restrictions.

The court also instructed the authorities to reopen Red Road for public use immediately after the event concludes on June 21. During the hearing, senior advocate Bhattacharyya questioned the necessity of blocking the road for an extended period, citing other international observances like International Women’s Day and International Human Rights Day, which do not involve similar disruptions.

Justice Bhattacharyya acknowledged the apolitical nature of the programme, contrasting it with road blockades often caused by political events in the city. The Additional Advocate General (AAG), Billwadal Bhattacharya, defended the decision, emphasizing that the Yoga Day event is a state-organised programme, not a private or religious one.

The court's observations highlighted the broader issue of balancing public convenience with the significance of state-organised events.