Bombay High Court Quashes Externment Order Against SDPI Leader Saeed Chaudhary

On July 2, 2026, the Bombay High Court quashed an externment order against Saeed Ahmad Abdul Wahid Chaudhary, the general secretary of the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI). Justice Madhav Jamdar set aside orders issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 6) and the Divisional Commissioner, Konkan Division, which initially barred Chaudhary from the region for one year. The court underscored that political dissent and protesting government policies—including controversial issues like the Gyanvapi Masjid controversy or citizenship law amendments—are fundamental rights protected under the Indian Constitution. The judge explicitly warned that citizens cannot be treated as "slaves" of the government and police are public servants, not tools of political executives.

The legal challenge followed Mumbai Police’s attempt to use five FIRs related to peaceful Morchas and Dharnas to justify the move. Justice Jamdar questioned the rationale of using such extreme administrative measures, noting that raising slogans against officials or leaders does not constitute a valid threat to public order. The court’s remarks serve as a significant check on the misuse of the Maharashtra Police Act, which is intended to control habitual criminals rather than silencing political opposition or suppressing civil liberties. This case highlights a concerning trend where administrative powers are used to displace individuals for expressing ideological differences.

Beyond the specific case of Saeed Chaudhary, the court commented on the deteriorating political climate in Maharashtra. Justice Jamdar expressed alarm over prioritizing political defections and horse-trading over governance. By invalidating this order, the court has reinforced the democratic right to critique those in power without facing physical exile. This judgment sets a vital legal precedent that will likely constrain the discretionary power of local police departments, emboldening peaceful activists and ensuring that participation in public demonstrations remains protected under the law.