Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (MM/RD)
Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje

Mangalore, Mar 6: If the executive performs duty properly, there is no scope for Public Interest Litigation (PIL). But the court can intervene when executive fails to perform his duties, said Justice Michael F Saldanha.

Speaking on PIL at SDM College auditorium on Wednesday March 5, he said that when executive fails, Supreme Court and High Courts have the authority to issue directions to execute duties, he informed.

'It is wrong to say PIL is false litigation. There is scope for misuse, but that is not a problem because PIL is only a channel to get justice when the executive fails,’ he opined.

When Blue Line bus drivers proved notorious because of their rash driving, Delhi High Court interfered and ordered the authorities concerned to cancel the licenses of the bus drivers. Meanwhile, the court also advised the authorities to make alternative arrangements for the passengers. This act by the High Court proved to be a saviour of citizens, Justice Saldanha added.

SEZ Threat:

Many parts of the subcontinent are living under the threat of Special Economic Zone (SEZ). These SEZs are involved in converting agricultural land into industrial zones and displacing the natives. However, government has misused the Land Acquisition Act for acquiring lands for setting up SEZ, claiming it was essential for public purpose. But, the poor farmer has no resources to file PIL in the High Court. In this situation, others can file PIL even though they are not the victims, he suggested.

He expressed concern that the courts are not taking any suo moto action, although media are exposing cases of injustice every day and asserted that if the courts are serious about providing justice, they must intervene. The improvement will definitely come, he assured.

Dr B K Ravindra, principal of the college was present on the dais.