Panch Tattva Wisdom

The purpose of a protest should be to convey the extent of public dissent, not to disrupt normal life or create maximum visibility through blocking roads, damaging property, or provoking confrontation. When visibility becomes the primary objective, there is a greater risk that some participants may resort to disruptive or even violent tactics to attract attention. Such incidents can overshadow the genuine concerns of peaceful protesters.
A government confident in democratic values could designate suitable venues for public demonstrations, invite all those wishing to protest to assemble there, and provide essential facilities such as drinking water, sanitation, medical aid, and, where appropriate, transport arrangements. The size and nature of the gathering would itself indicate the level of public support for the cause.
Peaceful protest should be fully protected. However, anyone carrying weapons, stones, or engaging in violence, vandalism, or intimidation should be dealt with firmly under the law. The right to protest must not become a licence to endanger others or disrupt the daily lives of citizens who are not party to the dispute.
Such an approach seeks to balance two democratic values: the citizens’ right to express dissent and the public’s right to safety, free movement, and normal civic life.

Krishna Khandelwal