Roads cannot be blocked for religious activities, says Supreme Court
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, April 29, 2026: The Supreme Court of India has observed that public roads cannot be blocked in the name of religious activities, stating that authorities have the power to step in if such actions disrupt civic life.
A nine-judge Constitution bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant made the remarks while hearing petitions on the scope of religious freedom and issues of discrimination at places of worship, including the Sabarimala Temple case.
The court noted that while religious groups have autonomy in matters of worship, this freedom does not extend to disturbing public order or essential services.
Justice B V Nagarathna observed that organising religious events cannot be a reason to block roads, and the State is empowered to regulate such situations.
The bench clarified that courts do not interfere in how religious practices are carried out, but intervention becomes necessary when secular rights or public convenience are affected.
It also stressed that the right to manage religious institutions must operate within a structured framework, with proper norms and regulatory mechanisms to ensure smooth functioning in line with constitutional principles.
During the hearing, lawyers debated the scope of protections under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution. The court reiterated that while religious freedom is guaranteed, it is subject to reasonable restrictions, including public order and non-discrimination.