The Supreme Court on Thursday advised the Union government to revise its five-year-old electric vehicle (EV) policy and consider a pilot rollout in a metropolitan city, noting significant advancements in EV technology and adoption.
Policy Needs Revision, Says Supreme Court
A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi observed that the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020, though progressive at the time, now needs updating.
“The policy needs to be revisited as several changes took place over the years,” the bench stated, suggesting that an updated policy could be tested through a pilot project in a major metro.
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Centre Says Review Underway
Attorney General R. Venkataramani informed the court that an inter-ministerial committee comprising 13 ministries was already examining various aspects of EV adoption. He assured the bench that a final decision on the revised policy would be taken soon.
Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing CPIL, noted that their petition sought full implementation of the 2020 EV plan and rapid expansion of charging infrastructure.
SC Moots Ban on High-End Fuel Vehicles
Justice Surya Kant suggested that the government explore banning high-end petrol and diesel cars first, stating it would not impact the common man.
“Very high-end VIPs still use gas-guzzling cars. Think of imposing a phased ban on these cars so it won’t affect the common man,” he said.
The Attorney General said the government was open to such an idea, adding: “The government is allied to that.”
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Revised Plan Must Address Incentives, Infrastructure
The bench said that the updated policy must consider consumer incentives, charging networks, and government adoption of EVs. The court granted the Centre time to submit a detailed roadmap.
Petitioners emphasised that rapid EV adoption is essential to protect citizens’ right to clean air and a healthy environment.
