New Delhi [India], April 20 (HBTV): The Supreme Court has dismissed a public interest litigation seeking a declaration that freedom fighter Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army (INA) secured India’s independence, along with a request to declare Netaji as India's ‘National Son’ and to observe October 21, 1943 (INA foundation day) and January 23, 1897 (his birth anniversary) as national days.
A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant noted that a similar PIL filed earlier by the same petitioner had already been dismissed, with the observation that such matters fall outside the scope of judicial review and may be taken up with the appropriate authority.
Expressing disapproval, the Court observed that despite its earlier stance, the petitioner had refiled the plea, allegedly for publicity. The Chief Justice cautioned the petitioner against filing such frivolous petitions in the future and warned of imposing costs. The Court also directed its Registry not to entertain any PILs filed by the petitioner on similar issues.
'Ab aap jaiye nahi toh aur cost laga denge (Now you should leave, otherwise we will impose costs),' the Chief Justice told the petitioner.
In 2022, the Supreme Court had dismissed a similar PIL seeking a direction to declare a national holiday on the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
A bench of then Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justice JB Pardiwala rejected the plea, stating that the matter falls within the domain of the Government of India.
'The best way to celebrate his contribution is by working hard just like he worked hard for independence,' Justice Chandrachud had said.
'You are making a mockery of the PIL jurisdiction. At least think about what the court can do. I am looking at the recent spate of such petitions. What will the Supreme Court do? Take the jurisdiction of the court seriously,' he had added. (ANI)