On Friday, the Delhi High Court emphasized that grievances about the government's promotion of schemes for last-mile connectivity are irrelevant if they lack any political symbols or party references.


government schemes


A bench headed by acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora heard a PIL filed by E A S Sarma and Jagdeep S Chhokar. The PIL alleged the improper utilization of civil servants and defense personnel to showcase the government's achievements over a span of nine years.

Representing the Center, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma referred to a note affirming the government's commitment to ensuring timely delivery of flagship schemes to targeted beneficiaries. These initiatives cover fundamental necessities like sanitation, financial services, housing, food security, healthcare, education, and clean water.

Sharma detailed the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra,' a nationwide campaign launched to raise awareness about ongoing schemes. He highlighted that over 1,51,780 events were conducted across 34 states/union territories, engaging 8,02,24,805 individuals and focusing on healthcare screenings, Ayushman cards distribution, and applications for kisan credit, among others.

Regarding selfie points, ASG Sharma considered them an innovative communication method, encouraging people to express their opinions on government schemes. He mentioned their involvement in initiatives like 'Agnipath,' aimed at inspiring young individuals to participate, emphasizing their cost-effectiveness and engaging nature.

However, the petitioner's counsel argued that according to RTI replies, each selfie point cost Rs 6 lakh. They contended that these points were being utilized for political speeches, displaying prominent images of the PM and involving army officers and bureaucrats against service rules. The counsel stressed the misuse of public funds for political purposes and the necessity for bureaucrats to remain politically neutral, as stipulated by existing rules.