Centre, SC collide over forest matters

New Delhi: The Union Government on Friday argued that Supreme Court is passing orders contrary to the statutory provisions on forest matters.

Accusing the apex court of passing orders in violation of statutory provisions, Additional Solicitor General Vikas Singh told the bench headed by Chief Justice Y K Sabharwal that the apex court has powers under Article 142 but it is passing orders contrary to the statutory provisions.

Sabharwal, replying to Singh, said that the Supreme Court is dealing with different forest matters for the last 10 years and no Attorney-General, Solicitor-General or Additional Solicitor-General have said anything against this in the past.

However, Singh replied that only recently such orders were being passed.

In a heated argument between Justice Arijit Pasayat and ASG, Justice Pasayat said, ‘‘you must have some responsibilities.'' ASG replied,'' I am saying this with utmost responsibility.''

The SC on Friday extended the stay till further order against the government appointed Forest Advisory Committee (FAC).

“It shows utmost irresponsibility, and don't utter a single word now.'' Pasayat said. Replying to him ASG said, ''you cannot gag me like this by saying it is contempt. Centre has responsibility and what the Centre has done is not less than what the SC has done.''

After the heated argument, the court finally directed the Centre to file an affidavit within two weeks stating therein whether the nomination of Expert Committee Members (ECM) was in accordance with the guidelines of April 2004 and if so a copy of the guidelines be also filed.

The apex court also directed that the court appointed Centrally Empowered Committee will continue to function and when the matter is heard after three weeks.

Justices Pasayat and Kapadia will be the members of the bench.