The Delhi High Court on Tuesday rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by a Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Councillor. The petition sought directives to raise the funds allocated by the Delhi government for MCD councillors to a minimum of ₹15 crore.
The Bench, comprising Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, declined to entertain the PIL, suggesting that the petitioner should address the issue with MCD authorities directly.
“We are struggling to secure funds for the Delhi High Court itself, so how can we issue directions to enhance your funds? You should raise the issue in the MCD House," the Court remarked.
According to the plea, many public parks in Delhi suffer from neglect due to water shortages, impacting greenery and posing safety risks for elderly residents. Similarly, schools run by the MCD reportedly face infrastructure challenges, which the petitioner claimed violates the right to education guaranteed under Article 21A of the Constitution.
Additionally, the petition raised concerns over the poor state of key facilities, including dispensaries, outdoor gyms, and community centers, depriving residents of essential health and social services. Filed through Advocate Shalabh Gupta, the plea also noted a disparity in fund allocation, as Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) receive significantly higher funds to carry out their responsibilities.
“While MLAs receive 15 crores annually, MCD councilors are allocated only l crore per year, an amount unchanged for decades. This funding disparity undermines the functioning of local governance. Despite multiple appeals, the authorities have not increased funding for MCD councillors," the petition said.
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