Thu Sep 11 20:25:08 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

The Kerala High Court has ordered four CPI(M) leaders, along with a Station House Officer and the Kannur District Police Chief, to appear in court on October 6th. This is related to a contempt of court case stemming from a protest held on February 25th in Kannur, where a major highway was blocked, disrupting traffic. The court believes a prima facie case for contempt has been established due to the obstruction of public roads and the perceived inaction of the authorities.
## News Article:

**Kerala High Court Orders CPI(M) Leaders to Appear in Contempt Case Over Road Blockage**

**KOCHI, September 12, 2025** – The Kerala High Court has issued a directive requiring four prominent leaders from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], along with a Station House Officer and the District Police Chief of Kannur, to appear before the court on October 6th. The order stems from a contempt of court case related to a protest meeting held in Kannur on February 25th, 2025.

The CPI(M) leaders named in the order are M.V. Jayarajan, E.P. Jayarajan, P. Jayarajan, and K.V. Sumesh, MLA. The petitioner, N. Prakash of Ernakulam, personally presented his case to the court, alleging that the protest involved the illegal blockage of the Kargil Yogasala four-lane highway near the Head Post Office in Kannur. According to the petition, a pandal was erected, and chairs were placed directly on the road, causing significant traffic disruptions that necessitated diversions throughout the day.

Prakash argued that the police and other relevant authorities failed to intervene despite the obstruction of the vital thoroughfare.

A Division Bench of Justice Anil K. Narendran and Muralee Krishna S. emphasized the growing trend of political parties and organizations holding agitations that impede pedestrian and vehicular traffic. They noted the practice of laying carpets and placing chairs on footpaths and public roads.

“Having considered the preliminary arguments of the petitioner…and the learned Additional Advocate General, we are satisfied that the petitioner has made out a prima facie case for ordering notice to the respondents for contempt of court,” the court stated.

The High Court’s order underscores its concern over the disruption of public life due to unauthorized protests and the perceived lack of action by law enforcement. The case is expected to be closely watched as it raises questions about the balance between the right to protest and the right to free movement.

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