SC adjourns hearing on plea seeking financial assistance for drought relief to Karnataka till April 29

The Supreme Court emphasized the significance of peacefully settling disagreements between the federal government and the states on Monday during hearing, and the Union government promised to take action within a week to resolve Karnataka’s drought-related issues. The Union’s attorney general, R. Venkataramani, and Karnataka’s senior lawyer, Kapil Sibal, were called upon by Justices B.R. Gavai and Sandeep Mehta to highlight the equality of the Union and State governments.

On April 22, Mr. Sibal informed the court that Karnataka was willing to wait for a week. Mr. Venkataramani cited the need for Election Commission concurrence due to ongoing Lok Sabha elections before addressing Karnataka’s issues.

During the previous hearing on April 8, the Supreme Court had questioned the trend of states approaching the court against the Union government. Instances included Tamil Nadu’s accusation of delayed disaster relief funds and Kerala’s suit concerning borrowing limits. The court discouraged the notion of a contest between the Union and states, urging for cooperative resolution.

Karnataka’s petition highlighted its urgent need for financial relief, citing significant crop damage and severe drought conditions. The State emphasized its duty to safeguard citizens’ fundamental rights, arguing that the Centre’s inaction violated constitutional guarantees. Despite submissions and assessment reports, the Centre had not made a decision regarding assistance, leaving Karnataka in distress.