RUPINDER SINGH SODHI AND ANOTHER vs UNION OF INDIA AND OTHERS

The Supreme Court, while adjudicating on Writ Petition Nos. 8816 and 8817 under Article 32 of the Constitution, held that highways are public property and cannot be obstructed unlawfully. The Court recognized the police's right to impose reasonable restraints to maintain public order, but emphasized that such restraints must be minimal and not used for oppression or harassment. The Court expressed concern over police conduct in dealing with the Akali movement, indicating that any substantial invasion of personal freedom would warrant judicial intervention.