Bombay HC Slams Maharashtra Defections
The Bombay High Court made sharp oral observations on political defections in Maharashtra while quashing an externment order against SDPI leader Saeed Ahmad Abdul Wahid Chaudhary. The court held that merely organising protests against government decisions cannot be grounds to extern a citizen.
Bombay High Court On Maharashtra Politics
Justice Madhav Jamdar orally remarked that political “horse trading” was taking place across Maharashtra and referred to a “washing machine” in the context of leaders facing FIRs and switching political sides.
The remarks came while the court was hearing Chaudhary’s plea challenging an externment order issued by Maharashtra Police. Chaudhary, 49, is the general secretary of the Socialist Democratic Party of India. The police action against him was linked to protests and political demonstrations against decisions of the Union government and the BJP.
Externment Order Against SDPI Leader Quashed
The court quashed the externment order, observing that protests, morchas and dharnas against government decisions cannot become grounds for externing a citizen under the Maharashtra Police Act.
Justice Jamdar said such action affects fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and dignity under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution. The bench also said that opposition to government decisions cannot be treated as material for preventive action unless there is a lawful basis showing threat or harm.
Right To Protest Protected By Court
The court set aside the December 3, 2025 and March 27, 2026 orders passed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone 6, and the Divisional Commissioner, Konkan Division. These orders had externed Chaudhary for one year.
The ruling reinforces that political dissent and public protest remain protected democratic rights and cannot be treated as automatic grounds for removing a person from a jurisdiction.
