Why in the News?
- The Supreme Court took suo moto cognizance of widespread damage to public property during protests and rallies.
Key Legal Provisions
- The Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984 penalizes those causing damage during strikes, protests, and vandalism.
- SC’s Previous Guidelines (2007, 2009, 2018) recommended stricter accountability measures, including recovering damages from protest organizers.
Challenges in Implementation
- Weak enforcement – Law rarely invoked effectively.
- Lack of accountability – Protest leaders often escape liability.
- Delayed legal proceedings – Cases drag on for years.
Way Forward
- Strict enforcement of SC’s damage recovery guidelines.
- Expedited trials for protest-related vandalism cases.
- Public awareness campaigns on legal consequences.