Tue Oct 07 18:59:07 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Bombay High Court has issued a notice to the Maharashtra government regarding a petition filed by differently-abled beneficiaries of a state-run scheme designed to provide them with electric rickshaws. The petitioners allege that the rickshaws supplied were substandard and defective, posing risks to their safety and livelihood. The court acknowledged the petitioners’ concerns and has directed the government to respond, with a senior officer to be present at the next hearing on October 15, 2025.
**News Article:**
**Bombay High Court Questions Maharashtra Government on Substandard E-Rickshaws for Disabled**
**Mumbai, October 8, 2025:** The Bombay High Court has intervened in a case concerning a Maharashtra government scheme aimed at empowering differently-abled individuals. A notice has been issued to the state government following a petition alleging that the electric rickshaws distributed under the scheme are of substandard quality and pose a significant threat to the safety and livelihoods of the beneficiaries.
The petition, filed by Sunil Prabhakar Suryavanshi and others, highlights numerous defects in the e-rickshaws provided under the “Provision of Green Energy-Powered Environment-friendly Mobile Shop (Mobile Shop on E-Vehicle) for Disabled Persons to become Self-Reliant” scheme. Concerns raised include poor battery life, malfunctioning brakes, inaccurate display information, inability to climb inclines, and dangerous vibrations while driving. The petitioners also claim that the Haryana-based manufacturer has made servicing and spare parts difficult to obtain.
Represented by advocate Asim Sarode, the petitioners argue that the scheme lacks adequate monitoring and grievance redressal mechanisms, leading to hardship for its intended beneficiaries. They claim to have exhausted all other avenues, including complaints and RTI applications, before approaching the court.
A Division Bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Sandesh D. Patil acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, stating that the issue directly impacts the dignity, safety, and livelihood of the differently-abled.
The court has directed the Department of Social Justice and Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra, to respond to the allegations. A senior officer, well-versed in the facts of the case, is required to be present at the next hearing on October 15, 2025, with appropriate instructions. The case underscores potential shortcomings in government initiatives aimed at empowering vulnerable populations and highlights the importance of rigorous quality control and accountability.
First Piper 