An outer view of Bombay High Court in Mumbai.
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
The Bombay High Court has issued a notice to the Maharashtra government over allegations that substandard electric rickshaws were distributed to differently abled persons under a State-run empowerment scheme, observing that the issue directly impacts their dignity, safety and livelihood. A Division Bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Sandesh D. Patil were hearing a petition filed by Sunil Prabhakar Suryavanshi and others, beneficiaries of a 2019 government scheme, titled, ‘Provision of Green Energy-Powered Environment-friendly Mobile Shop (Mobile Shop on E-Vehicle) for Disabled Persons to become Self-Reliant’. The scheme was later amended in September 2023. The petitioners, represented by advocate Asim Sarode, alleged that the e-rickshaws supplied under the scheme were defective, low-quality, and unfit for use. Among the issues cited were poor battery quality, every time the e-rickshaw is started, it displays incorrect information on the screen; its inability to climb inclines, malfunctioning brakes, low passenger capacity, and while driving, the vehicle suddenly vibrates and pulls to one side, increasing the risk of accidents for both the differently-abled drivers and passengers. The vehicles were manufactured by a Haryana-based company, resulting in delayed servicing and unavailability of spare parts, the petitioners claimed. The petitioners argued that the scheme lacked proper monitoring, grievance redressal and accountability mechanisms, resulting in systemic failure and hardship for its intended beneficiaries. The petitioners submitted that despite filing complaints, legal notices and RTI applications, no remedial action was taken, prompting them to approach the court. Taking note of the submissions, the Bench observed, “It appears that since the petitioners having exhausted all possible remedies including filing complaints, legal notices and filing RTI applications, have filed the aforesaid petition.” The Court further said, “We find substance in what has been stated by the learned counsel for the petitioners and as such issue notice to the respondents, returnable on October 15, 2025.” The Court has issued notice to the Department of Social Justice and Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra.” The Court directed that a senior responsible officer from the department, who is well-versed with the facts of the case, be present on the next date of the hearing with appropriate instructions. Published - October 08, 2025 12:29 am IST
