PIL in Bombay HC seeks directions to Shinde, rebels to return to Maharashtra

The PIL stated that deliberate absence of the ministers violates the rights of citizens especially those related to farmers and urban issues like water supply during the monsoon season

Seven Maharashtra citizens have filed a public interest litigation in the Bombay high court seeking directions to Eknath Shinde and 38 rebel legislators to return to the state and resume their duties as elected representatives, claiming that citizens were suffering because they were neglecting their work.

7 Maharashtra citizens have filed a public interest litigation in the Bombay high court seeking directions to Eknath Shinde and 38 rebel legislators to return to the state and resume their duties as elected representatives. (HT PHOTO.)

The high court has said it will take up hearing of the petition after going through the plea filed for urgent hearing.

The PIL was mentioned on Monday morning before the division bench of chief justice Dipankar Datta and justice Makarand Karnik by advocates Ajinkya Udane and Asim Sarode. The bench was informed that the PIL sought consideration of the fundamental rights of citizens and urged the court to direct Eknath Shinde, who is camping with some other ministers in Guwahati, to return to the state and resume their duties.

The PIL stated that deliberate absence of the ministers violates the rights of citizens especially those related to farmers and urban issues like water supply during the monsoon season.

The PIL had also sought “appropriate action” against Shinde and other ministers as they had neglected their duties and were guilty of “moral wrongs committed leading to disrespect towards public right and good governance” by supporting Shinde. The PIL alleged that the action by the legislators was for personal benefit and not in line with their constitutional duties.

The PIL also sought directions to the Maharashtra government to submit a detailed plan of assurance that rights of citizens will be safeguarded.