On Thursday, the Supreme Court stayed the Allahabad High Court’s recent order restraining Ram Lila celebrations at a school playground, while emphasising that children must continue to have access to the ground for play and sports.
The controversy originated from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the use of the school ground for Ram Lila by an unnamed committee. The PIL contended that interlocking tiles were being laid, a 'Sita Ram Gate' constructed at the main entrance, and swings installed, with an alleged attempt to convert the ground into a permanent venue for such events, thereby depriving children of recreational space.
The High Court, in its order, had held, "The attempt appears to be to convert the land of the school into a permanent place for holding activities of the nature, which are sought to be objected, which action cannot be permitted," and stayed the Ram Lila festivities.
Challenging this direction, Shree Nagar Ram Lila Mahotsav approached the Supreme Court. The Bench questioned the respondent who had initiated the PIL, asking, "If this Ramleela is happening on this ground for last 100 years why did you approach court now? Why not in advance?"
A Bench comprising Justice Surya Kant, Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh observed, "Since festivities have begun, para 11 of the order is stayed, the festivities shall continue [on the] condition that children shall continue to play or pursue sports activities."
The Court also highlighted the absence of any direct stake by the complainant, noting, "Where is the complaint by student or parents? Why not go in advance and seek alternate arrangements?"
By staying the High Court’s order, the Supreme Court allowed the Ram Lila to continue on the condition that children’s access to the playground is not restricted. The Bench further directed that all stakeholders should be heard before the High Court passes any final directions in the PIL and suggested that the petitioners may seek a preponement of the hearing date.
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