Central Vista project: Can proceed with foundation stone laying, but no construction until judgment
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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday allowed the Central government to go ahead with the foundation stone laying ceremony of the proposed new Parliament building fixed on December 10.
However, the court restrained the government from any constructions or demolition of structures or cutting down of trees in relation to the Central Vista project.
The apex court, however expressed displeasure at the Central government's aggressive mode with the construction projects even when the issue of legality of the Central Vista project was sub-judice.
"We thought we are dealing with a prudent litigant and deference will be shown. Just because there is no stay does not mean that you can go ahead with everything," Justice AM Khanwilkar told Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will laying foundation for a new parliament building, main constituent of Centra Vista project. A common Central Secretariat and residences of Prime Minister and Vice-president also are envisaged under the project.
The deadline for completion of the construction of Parliament building is 2022. The entire project will be completed in 2024.
However, the project has attracted numerous allegations on violation of environment laws and lack of transparency in the commissioning.
In November, the Supreme Court had reserved judgment on a batch of petitions filed challenging the project. However, the Centre announced the foundation laying ceremony on December 10. Also, there were reports of felling down trees and removing structures in connection the project.
Many activists expressed displeasure over the Centre's move as the matter was sub-judice.
Amazing that while serious challenge to 1000s Crores Central Vista project (being pushed through in violation of all norms) is being heard by SC, the PM has announced laying its foundation stone. Remember Tughlaq? https://t.co/3egmMGBHi9
— Prashant Bhushan (@pbhushan1) December 7, 2020
A few of the activists also raised eyebrows on the Supreme Court after it allowed the government to proceed with the foundation stone laying ceremony. They wondered why the Court did not stay the project even after finding that due reverence was not paid to the judicial system.
