The Supreme Court has taken cognizance of a plea filed by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government seeking the release of INR 3,000 crores for the Delhi Jal Board. Notice has been issued to the Principal Secretary (Finance), and the matter is scheduled for hearing on April 5, 2024.

The bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud refrained from issuing notice to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor, highlighting the assertions made by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi. Rohatgi argued that the Lieutenant Governor does not play a role in the allocation of funds by the finance department of the Delhi government.

The urgency of the matter was underscored when Senior Advocate AM Singhvi brought it to the attention of the Chief Justice of India-led bench on March 20, 2024. Singhvi emphasized the imminent lapse of funds amounting to INR 3,000 crores by March 31, 2024, urging for an expedited hearing. Despite the existing listing for April 1, 2024, Singhvi urged for an earlier consideration to prevent the lapse of funds.

The Delhi Jal Board Contractors’ Welfare Association had previously issued warnings to the government regarding potential work stoppages if their outstanding dues were not cleared. 

This situation adds pressure to the AAP government, which had initially allocated INR 4,839.5 crores to the Jal Board. However, only INR 1,598 crores were released in May of the previous year as the first installment, with subsequent installments remaining unpaid.

The upcoming hearing on April 5, 2024, holds significance for both the AAP government and the Delhi Jal Board, as it addresses the crucial issue of funding allocation and its impact on ongoing projects and contractors' livelihoods.

Case: GNCTD vs. LG, Delhi.