The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed a desire to interact with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari in open court on the Centre’s plan for introduction of electric vehicles(EVs), noting he has been making statements on this subject for reducing vehicular pollution.
The top court, however, did not seek Gadkari's presence after the law officer, appearing for the Centre, raised objections, saying there could be a “political issue” if the minister makes a court appearance.
The court, hearing a PIL seeking implementation of National E-Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), 2020 said it would like to interact with the minister as he has been talking about the use of alternative fuels in private and public transport vehicles modes. The plan recommended gradual conversion of public transport and government vehicles into EVs,
“Your minister talks about it. We would like to hear him. Somebody responsible should come,” Chief Justice S A Bobde, who headed a three-judge bench, told Additional Solicitor General ANS Nadkarni, who was representing the Centre.
The bench, which also comprised justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, then asked can the minister come and explain the proposal to introduce non-polluting vehicles that can run either on electricity or hydrogen.
