The bench noted, if the protest had taken place at locations like the Delhi Zoo or Jantar Mantar, even with smoke canisters, it would not be as serious. “But choosing Parliament, especially on a day when MPs were paying tribute to victims of the 2001 Parliament attack, makes this case more troubling,” the bench observed.The matter requires careful consideration, the court held, asking if releasing smoke could cause harm, i.e. to someone with asthma or cause irritaion.ASG Sharma opposed bail, referring to Section 15 of UAPA and the IPC’s definition of criminal force. He argued the smoke canisters affected parliamentarians, who represent the electorate, making this a serious offence. “This is not just an assault on individuals but on the very symbol of democracy. The date and place chosen show intent to threaten the country’s security and spread terror, as confirmed by the MPs’ reactions,” he said, adding, even if the method was not prima facie lethal, the message behind the act must be taken seriously under UAPA.Also in courtHC seeks clarity over Pickleball governanceThe Court has directed the Centre to submit complete details concerning the formation and recognition of the newly-constituted Indian Pickleball Association, embroiled in a controversy over the sport’s governance in India. The directive came during an ongoing legal battle between the All India Pickleball Association and the Centre. The Union government, seeking more time to submit its counter affidavit, was instead instructed to furnish all relevant documents connected to the disputed recognition process.
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