Preventive Detention A Harsh Measure, Permissible Only When 'Public Order' Disturbed : Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of India has emphasized that preventive detention is a harsh measure and can only be invoked when there is a disturbance to public order. The Court stated that such powers cannot be exercised arbitrarily and must be based on the necessity to prevent harm to public safety or order. It clarified that preventive detention cannot be used in every case of perceived threat but must be exercised judiciously, with due regard for the rights of individuals and the larger societal need for security.