The Supreme Court court washroom infrastructure tax on liquor cigarettes case concerns basic amenities in court complexes. A three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant held that a lack of funds cannot justify denying essential facilities under Article 21.
The Bench directed State Advocate Generals and Public Works Departments to complete urgent infrastructure upgrades across court complexes.
Court Infrastructure And Article 21
The Supreme Court addressed the lack of basic facilities across the judicial system.
Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana heard the matter.
The Bench held that clean and hygienic sanitation facilities form part of the right to live with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Therefore, financial constraints cannot justify the denial of these basic amenities.
Court Suggests Additional Excise Revenue
The Bench also considered the financial concerns raised by state authorities.
To address the funding shortage, the Court suggested additional revenue measures.
States may consider imposing an additional excise duty or surcharge on products such as alcohol and tobacco.
The Court said such measures could create a dedicated fund for essential judicial infrastructure.
The Bench also indicated that the judiciary would uphold lawful fiscal measures introduced for this purpose.
Time-Bound Assessment And Construction
The Supreme Court issued specific directions to ensure quick action.
First, Advocate Generals of all States and Union Territories must assess the condition of ladies’ washrooms within two weeks.
Next, the respective Public Works Departments must begin construction within four weeks of receiving the reports.
The Court also issued specific location guidelines.
Authorities must construct washrooms near active women advocates’ bar rooms. The Court said isolated locations could create security risks.
Status Reports Within Six Weeks
During the hearing, Attorney General for India R. Venkataramani said he planned to hold a joint consultation with State Advocate Generals.
The consultation would help coordinate a uniform action plan.
Counsel for Bihar also informed the Court about ongoing infrastructure projects in district and subordinate courts.
The projects include facilities for male advocates, female advocates, and persons with disabilities.
No Excuse Based On Financial Shortage
The Supreme Court court washroom infrastructure tax on liquor cigarettes ruling sets strict deadlines for improving court facilities.
The Court directed all States and Union Territories to submit detailed status reports within six weeks.
Importantly, the Bench warned that authorities would not receive extensions.
It also said that financial constraints would not justify delays in providing essential court infrastructure
