HC Expresses Displeasure Over State Govt’s Inaction on Welfare Schemes Petition

Nagpur: The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court on Wednesday voiced its dissatisfaction with the Maharashtra state govt for failing to respond to a petition challenging the legality of various welfare schemes, including the Ladki Bahin scheme, which offers free benefits to women. The court has granted the govt a final opportunity to submit its reply within four weeks.The petition, filed by social activist Anil Wadapalliwar, contests these schemes, citing concerns about their constitutionality and the state's strained financial condition. Wadapalliwar requested that the court declare the welfare programs unconstitutional, arbitrary, and irrational in light of the state's fiscal challenges.On Wednesday, the matter was heard before a Division Bench comprising Justice Nitin Sambre and Justice Vrushali Joshi. During the previous hearing, the court instructed Wadapalliwar to provide provisions related to the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act along with other necessary details. Following this, Wadapalliwar submitted additional information and sought permission to amend the petition, which was granted.Representing the petitioner was Advocate Shreerang Bhandarkar, while Govt Pleader Deven Chauhan appeared on behalf of the state. The court has now directed the govt to respond to the amended petition in the coming weeks. MSID:: 114516117 413 |