While agreeing to hear a plea over the July 20 'Sansad Chalo' march, the Supreme Court said law enforcement agencies should prioritise counselling and dialogue with young protesters instead of responding aggressively. The court tagged the plea, filed by retired Air Force officer Maneesh Kumar Solanki, with another petition already pending on the same issue. Ahmed contended that such an approach could embolden similar protests elsewhere, including by students in other states. Responding to the submissions, the Chief Justice said that even if some 'misguided elements' resort to stone-pelting, the response should focus on preventing further escalation rather than intensifying the confrontation. Reiterating the court's approach, the Chief Justice said peaceful protests must be facilitated while ensuring police respond with considerable restraint if violence erupts.