Chaini Parwani –
Published On: December 13, 2021 at 11:30 IST
The Bombay High Court on Monday directed the Central Government to submit its reply to a Public Interest Litigation seeking directions for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately take steps to remove the words ‘Prime Minister’ and his picture from the PM Cares Fund website and its trust deed.
A Two-Judge Bench comprising of Chief Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Makarand Karnik stated that this an ‘Important issue’ and requires a forthwith response.
It was highlighted that the Public Interest Litigation also alleges removal of the National Emblem and Flag from the Website.
Further Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh pleaded for more time to submit the Centre’s response and prayed for that the issue to be heard after Christmas Vacations.
Furthermore, Judges highlighted that the Central Government has not replied to the Plea since the previous Hearing.
The Chief Justice stated “You (Centre) have not filed your Affidavit (in reply). File your Affidavit.”
Earlier on October 12, Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh had asked for time to take Instructions.
Further the Bench noted that the reply should be submitted on December 23.
The Court posted the Matter for further Hearing on January 3.
The PIL was filed by a Congress member Vikrant Chavan and PM Modi is Respondent as he is Chairman of the Fund and Settlor of the Deed.
Also Read: Bombay HC seeks Centre reply on PIL challenging PM’s Name, Photo on PM CARES Website