Supreme Court Seeks Replies Over Delhi Metro Restrictions

India's Supreme Court on October 11, 2026 sought responses from senior officials over allegations that authorities violated its earlier order against a complete shutdown of metro and train services in Delhi during protests. The notice was issued to Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar, and Delhi Metro Rail Chief D. Thara.

According to the Times of India, the court action followed a contempt petition alleging non-compliance with its October 9 order. The bench directed authorities to restore normal internet connectivity, prevent illegal detentions, and avoid obstructing peaceful gatherings outside prohibited areas. The court also instructed officials to review barricades and ensure that lawyers, journalists, and other professionals could continue their duties without interference.

The Times of India reported that nearly 700 people were detained on Sunday, following estimates of around 7,000 detentions on Saturday.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal and more than a hundred lawyers criticized the police response and alleged that authorities ignored the Supreme Court's earlier directions. The matter centers on claims that security measures affected public movement and peaceful assembly rights.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta rejected allegations that the October 9 order had been breached. He said metro services were operating normally, while 45 stations were closed due to law and order concerns. The legal dispute unfolded as the Congress party prepared a protest march toward the Supreme Court after its request for a meeting with the Chief Justice of India was rejected. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the police action, while Rahul Gandhi cancelled a campaign event to oversee preparations for the planned demonstration.

Delhi Metro announced that six stations, including Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat, would remain closed for entry and exit from 6 AM to 4 PM on October 12, 2026. Authorities warned commuters of traffic disruptions and diversions in New Delhi and Central Delhi. In other developments covered by the Times of India, India's High Commissioner to Canada Dinesh Patnaik said India does not oppose peaceful advocacy for Khalistan but objected to activities involving criminal elements. The report also covered UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham's allegations of Russian interference in Britain's 2016 Brexit vote and a US federal judge's temporary block on a taxpayer-funded advertising campaign by the Donald Trump administration.

In sports, India took a 2-1 lead in the five-match T20 International series against the West Indies after winning the third match by 14 runs at Holkar Stadium on Sunday. Captain Shreyas Iyer praised Arshdeep Singh and Naman Dhir for their bowling performances after India defended a target of 224.