Threat perception still exists, says BSE

The division bench of Chief Justice Mohit Shah and Justice R V More was hearing a petition filed by Pukhraj Bafna, who co-owns the building Veena Chambers, situated near the BSE.

Bafna has sought quashing of a government notification issued soon after the November 26, 2008 terror attacks, which prohibited vehicular traffic and parking in the nearby areas.

The petitioner has sought permission to ply his car on the street leading to his office at Veena Chambers, and also to park the car inside the building premises. Soon after the 26/11 terror attack, security was beefed up at various sensitive locations including the BSE building.

The court, on the last hearing, had sought a reply from BSE on the petition. Senior counsel Rafiq Dada, appearing for BSE, today submitted a confidential report to the court, and argued that the threat perception still existed, so the ban on vehicular traffic around the building cannot be lifted.

Petitioner`s lawyer, advocate Ashish Mehta, said there was some space opposite the BSE building which can be allotted for parking. The court has now asked the BSE to submit a map of the area. Hearing has been adjourned for two weeks.