The Supreme Court indicated it is not inclined to revive the criminal case against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over a 2020 protest
July 16, 2026: The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed reluctance to revive a criminal case against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over his alleged involvement in a 2020 protest outside the then chief minister’s residence. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant observed that Mann now holds a responsible constitutional position and expressed confidence that he would act responsibly. The court adjourned the matter to July 20 after the Chandigarh administration sought more time to file additional appeals.
Appearing for the Chandigarh administration, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju argued that the Punjab and Haryana High Court had effectively conducted a “mini-trial” while quashing the FIR and claimed the administration had a strong case on merits. However, the Supreme Court remarked that political sloganeering and protests are common and made it clear that it was not inclined to interfere with the High Court’s decision at this stage.
The FIR, registered in January 2020, accused Mann and several AAP leaders of participating in a protest against increased electricity tariffs that allegedly turned violent, resulting in injuries to police personnel. In November 2025, the Punjab and Haryana High Court quashed the case, ruling that the injuries were not grievous, there was insufficient evidence to support serious charges, and no material directly linked Mann or the other accused to acts of violence or instigation during the protest.