Has the Delhi HC Ordered the Release of Pending Subsidies Under the Electric Vehicle Policy?
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Synopsis
The Delhi High Court's recent ruling demands the swift release of pending subsidies for electric vehicle buyers, addressing significant delays that have impacted many beneficiaries. This decision emphasizes the importance of adhering to environmental commitments and restoring public faith in governance.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi High Court mandates quick release of pending subsidies.
- Approximately Rs 48 crore in subsidies are overdue.
- Establishment of a separate bank account for direct transfers.
- Importance of maintaining public trust in governance.
- Supports environmental goals and adoption of electric vehicles.
New Delhi, Sep 3 (NationPress) The Delhi High Court has mandated the city government to swiftly disburse pending subsidy funds to qualified electric vehicle purchasers in accordance with the Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy, 2020. The directive came from a Bench led by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, who were reviewing a public interest litigation (PIL) lodged by Jan Seva Welfare Society, an NGO advocating for the implementation of the subsidy framework.
The PIL underscored that the delay in releasing subsidy payments, totaling around Rs 48 crore, despite numerous requests, has inflicted considerable difficulties on the beneficiaries. The court pointed out that the Delhi government could not use the absence of specified timelines in the EV Policy as a reason for the undue delays in subsidy distribution.
The court further instructed the city administration to establish a distinct bank account dedicated to directly transferring subsidy amounts to beneficiaries, thereby streamlining the process and eliminating unnecessary holdups.
“We anticipate that procedural delays will be addressed immediately and that payments will be made promptly once the new bank account is operational,” the Delhi High Court stated.
According to the PIL, the failure to release subsidies under the EV Policy has eroded public confidence in governance, as it contradicts clear policy assurances.
“The lack of action from authorities constitutes a breach of constitutional rights, violating Article 14 by acting arbitrarily against eligible beneficiaries and infringing upon Article 21 by obstructing the right to a clean and healthy environment,” it added.
The plea argued that the non-payment of subsidies hampers environmental initiatives, discouraging the adoption of zero-emission vehicles and undermining efforts to decrease vehicular pollution, thus failing to meet India’s commitments under the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
Point of View
Especially in the realm of environmental sustainability. This move is not only about financial assistance but is also pivotal in restoring public trust and encouraging the adoption of cleaner technologies. As stewards of the environment, it is essential for the government to act decisively in fulfilling its promises to citizens.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Delhi High Court's ruling regarding electric vehicle subsidies?
The Delhi High Court ordered the city government to promptly release pending subsidies for electric vehicle buyers under the Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy, 2020.
How much subsidy is pending for electric vehicle buyers?
Approximately Rs 48 crore in subsidies is pending for eligible electric vehicle buyers.
What was the reason for the public interest litigation?
The public interest litigation was filed due to the delay in releasing subsidy amounts, which caused significant hardship to beneficiaries.
What did the court instruct the government to do?
The court instructed the city government to establish a separate bank account for direct subsidy transfers to beneficiaries.
How does this ruling impact environmental commitments?
The ruling is crucial in promoting the adoption of zero-emission vehicles and fulfilling India's environmental obligations.
