'I'll intervene if not opened by lunch time': CJI Surya Kant steps in as metro station closure disrupts Supreme Court access

CJI assures action if station remains shut

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said the court would step in if the situation was not resolved by lunchtime.

"If by lunch time something does not happen to open it, I will intervene," the CJI said, as quoted by Bar and Bench.

The assurance came after Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) president Vikas Singh raised the issue before the court, highlighting the inconvenience faced by lawyers and court staff.

Singh suggested that commuters could be screened at the station to address security concerns but argued that the metro station should not remain closed.

Metro restrictions amid NEET protests

Several Delhi Metro stations in central Delhi remained closed or witnessed restricted access on Thursday as authorities tightened security in view of the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protests over the alleged NEET paper leak at Jantar Mantar.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), acting on the advice of security agencies, temporarily closed entry and exit gates at stations near the protest site, although train services continued to operate without interruption. Commuters were advised to use alternate stations and plan their journeys accordingly.

Security tightened across central Delhi

The restrictions come as thousands of protesters continue their sit-in at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, sweeping reforms in the education sector, and accountability over the alleged NEET paper leak.

Heavy police deployment, barricading and traffic diversions have also been put in place around Parliament Street, Janpath and adjoining areas to prevent protesters from marching towards high-security zones.

Authorities said the restrictions were precautionary measures aimed at maintaining law and order amid the intensifying agitation.