In a recent development, the Karnataka High Court imposed a fine of Rs 5000/- on the Union of India for its request for yet another adjournment in the Codava PIL case. The hearing for this case, which centers on the pursuit of Geo-Political Autonomy for Codavaland under Article 244 of the Indian Constitution, was scheduled for October 4, 2023. Notably, the courtroom featured the presence of Dr. Subramanian Swamy, a distinguished Economic scientist, former Union Law & Justice Minister, and Harvard Professor. Dr. Swamy was accompanied by his counsel, Mr. Kieran Narayan.
As the court session commenced, the Learned Additional Solicitor General (ASG), Mr. Shanthi Bhushan, informed the court that the Union Government was engaged in discussions and requested additional time to prepare their responses. Dr. Swamy, appearing before a division bench consisting of Hon’ble Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale and Justice Krishna Dixith, expressed his objections to the perceived delay tactics of the Union Government.
In response to the Union’s request for more time, the court levied a fine of Rs. 5000/- on the Respondent, with the stipulation that the fine be paid in the form of books to be donated to the court library. Following deliberations on Dr. Swamy’s objections and the ASG’s submissions, it was mutually agreed to reschedule the hearing for November 29, 2023.
This matter is associated with WP(PIL) bearing No-7769/2023, filed by Dr. Subramanian Swamy, seeking the establishment of a Commission to assess the long-standing legitimate aspirations of Codavaland for Geo-Political Autonomy, in accordance with the provisions of Article 244 and the 6th and 8th schedules. The Codava National Council (CNC), led by Chairman N U Nachappa Codava, was named Petitioner No-2 in this case, with the Union Law Ministry, Union Home Ministry, and State of Karnataka as Respondent No-1, R-2, and R-3, respectively.
On October 4, 2023, all three Respondents sought an extension of time to file their objections. In response, the High Court imposed a fine of Rs 5000/- on them and set a final deadline of October 29, 2023, for the submission of their objections.