Lakshadweep Administration Postpones 'No Vehicle Day' Implementation Until After Ramzan
The Lakshadweep administration has formally informed the Kerala High Court that the controversial order declaring Wednesdays as a 'no vehicle day' across the Union Territory will not be implemented until the conclusion of the Ramzan period. This announcement came during a hearing on Monday before a bench presided over by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, who recorded the submission made by the standing counsel for the Lakshadweep administration.
Petition Challenges the Impugned Order
The High Court was considering a petition filed by C P Ajmal Khan, a lawyer from Kalpeni Island who practices in both Lakshadweep and Ernakulam. The petition challenges an order issued by the district collector on February 17, which prohibits the plying of motor vehicles on all islands every Wednesday, with the measure scheduled to come into force on February 25. According to the order, only vehicles used by persons with disabilities and those deployed for security and emergency medical purposes are exempt, and violations would attract a fine of Rs 500.
Arguments Presented During the Hearing
During the hearing, the petitioner argued that the administration's order lacks a foundational study regarding the nature or extent of pollution on the islands, which the order aims to address. He further contended that the measure would adversely affect the right to movement of residents on the islands. In response, the court orally observed that the impugned order is merely a regulation that may be necessary given the peculiar circumstances of the island, particularly considering pollution affecting the coral ecosystems. The court opined that the order does not infringe upon the right to movement, noting that this right does not entitle individuals to insist on moving in a specific manner.
Additionally, the petitioner raised concerns that the order would disrupt the movement of essential goods, as there is no exemption for such transport. This point highlighted potential logistical challenges for island residents.
Administration's Submission and Court's Decision
In light of these arguments, the standing counsel for the Lakshadweep administration informed the High Court that the impugned order would not be implemented until the Ramzan period is over. The counsel also requested additional time to obtain further instructions from the administration. Consequently, the High Court adjourned the petition to March 16 for further hearing, allowing for more detailed deliberations on the matter.
This development underscores the ongoing debate between environmental regulations and residents' rights in Lakshadweep, with the administration opting for a temporary pause to accommodate religious observances during Ramzan.
