New Delhi: The Delhi High Court made remarks stating that there is no problem with the government promoting its schemes as long as there is no political symbolism or endorsement of a specific political party. The court emphasized that if public funds are utilized to raise awareness about government schemes without any political associations, there should be no grounds for complaint. These comments came in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the use of public resources for the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, a campaign aimed at highlighting government initiatives.

The petitioners, former IAS officer EAS Sarma and former IIM Ahmedabad Dean Jagdeep S Chhokar, raised concerns about political leaders giving speeches at these events, addressing issues like the Ram Mandir, Gujarat riots, and the abrogation of Article 370. They also challenged an order by the Ministry of Defence instructing the Army, Navy, and Air Force to set up selfie points featuring images of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to showcase the achievements of the Ministry.

The petitioners' counsel argued that these platforms were not solely used to promote government schemes; instead, political leaders discussed various political issues. He highlighted the deployment of bureaucrats and army officers for these events and criticized the cost of creating 3D selfie points of PM Modi.

The Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma, representing the Central government, argued that the yatras provided last mile connectivity to people excluded from government schemes. He cited two notes to illustrate the benefits and rationale behind the yatras, including efforts by the Army to inspire young women to join the armed forces and promote self-reliance in defense.

After considering the arguments, the Bench requested the ASG to submit the notes cited by him along with an affidavit. The court also allowed the petitioners to file an additional affidavit. The case is scheduled to be heard again on January 30.