Supreme Court Slams Maharashtra: Freebies vs. Compensation

Supreme Court Criticizes Maharashtra for Prioritizing Freebies Over Compensation

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court of India sharply criticized the Maharashtra government for allegedly favoring funds for its freebies scheme over compensating citizens for government-acquired properties. This rebuke specifically targeted the Eknath Shinde administration’s Ladli Behna scheme, which provides financial aid to women.

Court’s Rebuke on Prioritization

The three-judge bench, led by Justice BR Gavai, expressed frustration over the state’s financial priorities. “Do not take the court for granted. You cannot treat every order of the Court in a casual manner. You have enough money for the Ladli scheme…all the money on freebies, you should take a little bit to compensate for the loss of land also,” Justice Gavai remarked.

Affidavit Issue

The Supreme Court also reprimanded the Maharashtra government for failing to file an affidavit regarding compensation in a land acquisition case. The state had acquired a person’s property and allegedly replaced it with forest land. The court stressed the need for the government to address this lapse promptly.

Personal Appearance Requirement

The bench warned that if the affidavit is not submitted before the next hearing, the chief secretary of Maharashtra will be required to appear in person. This order underscores the seriousness with which the court views the issue.

Previous Court Statements

Earlier, the Supreme Court had remarked that the state’s actions regarding land acquisition were inadequate and that proper precautions should have been taken. The court’s recent statements emphasize its concern over the state’s handling of property compensation.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

See Full Bio