New Delhi: During a hearing on Monday, the Supreme Court emphasized the importance of avoiding conflict between the Centre and states, particularly in light of various state governments resorting to legal action. The bench of justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta directed the Attorney General and Solicitor General to provide information on the Karnataka government's petition seeking financial aid for drought management within two weeks.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta suggested that instead of resorting to legal avenues, the Karnataka government could have engaged in discussions with the central government. He also questioned the timing of such petitions.
Representing the Karnataka government, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal highlighted the urgency of the situation. The state, through advocate DL Chidananda, filed a plea urging the Supreme Court to compel the Centre to promptly decide on and release financial assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
The plea sought a declaration that the Centre's inaction in disbursing financial aid for drought relief violated the fundamental rights of the people of Karnataka as guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution.
Additionally, the plea argued that the Centre's actions were contrary to the statutory framework established by the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and other relevant guidelines.
According to the Karnataka government's submission, the state has faced severe drought conditions, affecting numerous livelihoods. Despite adhering to the prescribed procedures and notifying 223 out of 236 taluks as drought-affected, the state has yet to receive adequate assistance from the NDRF.
The estimated loss due to crop damage and other related impacts amounts to Rs. 35,162.05 Crore, while the assistance sought from the Centre stands at Rs. 18,171.44 Crore. Despite multiple assessments and submissions, the Union of India has not convened the necessary committees to address the state's requests, thereby impeding the fundamental right to life guaranteed under Article 21.
The Supreme Court's intervention is crucial in ensuring timely relief for the affected populace and fostering cooperative governance between the Centre and states.
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