In Brief
A film society and its member challenged violent protests disrupting certified film exhibitions. Groups threatened cinema halls and exhibition venues to prevent screenings, particularly of 'Padmaavat', claiming offense to cultural/religious sentiments. The petitioners sought mandamus to implement Supreme Court guidelines on preventing destruction of public/private property during protests and to establish claims commissioners for assessing damages. The Court held that existing comprehensive guidelines from In Re: Destruction of Public and Private Properties (2009) adequately address the issue. It issued expanded guidelines covering preventive, remedial, and punitive measures, including establishing nodal officers, rapid response teams, cyber-portals for reporting mob violence, compensation mechanisms, and accountability of police officials. These measures shall apply immediately pending legislative amendments to the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984.
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