Karnataka HC Asks Authorities To Ensure Smooth Movement Of Traffic And Pedestrians During Ramzan, Other Festive Occasions

A division bench of Chief Justice N V Anjaria and Justice K V Aravind directed thus while refusing to entertain a public interest litigation by one Sabeer and others, who had pointed about encroachment in the public spaces in certain areas of the city of Bengaluru.

It was claimed that due to congestion, ambulances do not have the free movement and there is total lack of regulation on part of the authorities. It was submitted that the provisions of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 are also not complied with.

Further, it was said that congestion on the footpaths and on roadsides of the Bhartinagar, Shivajinagar, Commercial Street and other areas would become even more congested, especially in the month of the festival of Ramzan, which is currently going on. Thus, it was urged that officials of the corporation and the police personnel should ensure enforcement of the provisions of the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976 and the Karnataka Police Act, 1963.

On going through the averments the court noted the petition is too general in its details to be countenanced for any specific order. In addition thereto, the pleadings are less than sufficient, although the general allegations are made about encroachment and congestion in the public spaces.

Then it held “In respect of such a vague petition, the court is not inclined to invoke its public interest jurisdiction.”

Taking note of the oral submission about congestion in traffic movement during the ongoing festival (Ramzan) is taken note of. It said, “In that context, it is observed that the authorities of the corporation, the municipal authorities, respondent No.3-the Police Commissioner and all other authorities concerned during the Ramzan festival and on all such festive occasions, shall ensure the smooth movement of traffic on the road and on the footpath so as not to adversely affect the vehicular, pedestrian and public movement.”

Appearance: Advocate ABDUL MAJID for Petitioners.

AGA NILOUFER AKBAR for Respondents

Citation No: 2025 LiveLaw (Kar) 128

Case Title: Sabeer & Others AND State of Karnataka & Others

Case No: WP 8783/2025