DMRC Chair Apologises in SC Contempt Case Over Metro Shutdown
What Happened
On October 11, 2026, the Supreme Court issued notices to the Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar, and DMRC Chairperson D. Thara after petitioners alleged violation of its October 9 order against blanket bans on metro and train services during protests in Delhi. The contempt petition, filed by advocate Shailendra Mani Tripathi, claimed that 45 metro stations remained closed despite the court’s directive to allow regulated operations. DMRC Chairperson D. Thara appeared before the bench, apologised, and sought discharge from contempt, arguing that the restrictions were imposed under police instructions to maintain public safety. The court directed all respondents to file compliance affidavits by October 13, 2026.
Key Takeaways
The case highlights the tension between public order measures and citizens’ mobility rights. The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores that blanket transport shutdowns cannot override judicial directions, and accountability of senior officials is being tested.