STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Hearing a Public Interest Litigation related to maintenance of public roads, removal of encroachments, laying of proper roads and enhancing the facilities for better public use in the District Jammu and surrounding areas a Division Bench of State High Court comprising First Puisne Judge Justice Sudhakar Ramalingam and Justice B.S Walia on Monday observed that in the instant PIL, series of orders have been passed giving directions to the authorities to ensure better facilities for the citizens.
Amongst the various orders, the orders dated 28th April, 2006, 28th February, 2011 and 28th March, 2011 passed by this Court are appropriate and for the present relevant. By order dated 28th March, 2011 a High Powered Committee was formed. In that Committee D.C Raina, senior counsel (Amicus Curiae) was also made a member along with various government officials headed by Divisional Commissioner, Jammu. It is reported that the Committee met on several occasions and took some steps. Reports have also been filed. Further action is required to be taken.
Division Bench further observed that though effective steps were taken earlier, it is suggested by all that regular monitoring and more impetus is required to be given for implementing the suggestions by various departments. The lacuna has to be identified and key areas of difficulty in enforcement have to be identified and remedial action taken. It was suggested that active participation of the members of the Bar will be of great help. In fact many Advocates men and woman including the President of the Bar offered their services.
Division Bench further observed that in views of the enlarged scope of public purpose and the reports President of the Bar Association, Jammu is also made as a member. Abhinav Sharma the present President will also represent in the Committee. Rohit Kapoor, Advocate (Amicus Curiae) will also assist the Committee. As suggested by D.C Raina, learned Sr. counsel and members of the Committee that considering the interest shown by the advocates to participate in public welfare measures more advocates espousing public cause can be requested to assist in this public purpose.
Division Bench further observed that Abhinav Sharma, President of the Bar Association, Jammu new member is requested to furnish a list of advocates, who are willing to assist the High Powered Committee in implementing the various welfare measures. The said list of advocates/Samaritans will be approved by D. C. Raina, Sr. counsel and the said members will be assigned specific tasks so as to oversee the implementation of the orders of this Court. The High Powered Committee will assign the role of each member in this regard. Division Bench directed Divisional Commissioner, Jammu to conduct regular meetings and inspection with the members of the High Powered Committee at frequent intervals and report to this Court on the progress made thereon and Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Municipal Commissioner, Jammu and Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Jammu are requested to assist the High Powered Committee and the Court as per the earlier orders of the Court as and when required.
