The Delhi High Court while hearing a petition issued a notice dated May 14, 2020, to the Delhi Government. The petition sought directions to the Delhi government to resume public transport. Shreesh Chadha, a final year law student filed the petition through Advocate Prashant Vaxish.
The petitioner contended that all the offices and establishments are open in Delhi. Being that, the employees may be under an obligation to report to work. Private vehicles are also operating subject to certain conditions. While, on the other hand, no directions to permit public transportation are issued. He asserted that lakhs of people remain dependent on Delhi Transport Corporation and Metro Services for their commute.
Moreover, the revised guidelines issued by the Central government are problematic; they prohibit the use of public transportation. Adding to it, the policy creates an unreasonable classification between ones who own a private vehicle and those who rely on public transport. In effect, it violates Article 14 of the Indian Constitution.ย The petitioner said that the non-availability of public transport can hinder the employees to show their presence on mandated working days. As a result, it gives a chilling effect on the Right to earn a livelihood (Article 21) and freedom to carry out trade and profession (Article 19).
In the light of these contentions, the petitioner sought directions from the High Court. Taking note of the contentions, the Division Bench consisting of Justices Rajiv Sahai Endlaw and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal issued notice to Delhi and Centre government.
