“We consider it suitable that all the issues are considered at the same time and with the assistance of authority empowered to take decisions,” it added
New Delhi: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari was “requested” by the Supreme Court on Wednesday to come and share “innovative ideas” on tackling pollution. It was a request for the minister’s inputs, not a summons, the judges sought to clarify.
“The Union minister has innovative ideas. We are urging him to come to SC and assist us because he is in a position to make decisions,” said Chief Justice SA Bobde.
As the government lawyer appeared reluctant and this may be “seen politically”, the Chief Justice SA Bobade clarified: “Don’t think we are summoning minister. It is a request we want someone in authority to decide. Please find out whether can come.”
The Apex court was hearing a plea on the implementation of government policy on electric vehicles. Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, who was representing the plea recommended that the government can charge a fee from petrol and diesel cars and give subsidies to electric vehicles.
The SC said firecrackers and stubble-burning were seasonal but cars were the major contributors to pollution. “Pollution from crackers and stubble burning is seasonal and for a smaller period. But motor vehicles are a major concern and we want to consider the issue comprehensively,” said Chief Justice Bobde.
“We find that the issue of the use of electric vehicles is connected to various other issues which are pending before the SC. Such issues, which pertain to the source of the power of vehicles in which public and private – eventually have a great effect on the environment. This is not just in Delhi-NCR, but entire India,” the court order read.
“We consider it suitable that all the issues are considered at the same time and with the assistance of authority empowered to take decisions,” it added. The central government has been given four weeks to file a response.
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