SC STAYED ON THE CONTEMPT PROCEEDINGS INITIATED BY DELHI HC AGAINST CENTRE

5th May 2021

The SC stayed on the contempt proceedings initiated by Delhi HC against the Centre for non-compliance with the supply of 700MT oxygen to the National Capital.

The SC said there is no reason for exercising contempt proceeding during the given situation but asked the centre to submit a tabulated plan to meet the target (700 MT oxygen) by 10.30 am (6th May). The bench also stated that hauling officers would not solve the crises. When the country is facing a humanitarian crisis, the court should aim at solving problems. 

The Court appreciated the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation in handling the situation in Mumbai and asked the centre to hold a meeting with Iqbal Singh Chahal (Municipal Commissioner) to adopt such measures in Delhi. Another meeting between the centre and Delhi Government should discuss various prospects of oxygen supply to the state. 

Justice Chandrachud asked on what basis the centre is deciding the assessment of oxygen requirement. There should be an upfront display of the status of oxygen and where it is coming from. 

Author: Papiha Ghoshal