Key highlights
- The Supreme Court has proposed a phased ban on high-end petrol and diesel cars to ramp up EV adoption.
- The bench argues that restricting luxury ICE vehicles will affect only a small, wealthy segment and send a strong policy signal.
- The Centre, represented by the Attorney General, says 13 ministries are already working on EV policy and infrastructure.
A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi has asked the Indian government to consider restricting or banning luxury petrol and diesel cars in a phased manner. The aim? To fast-track India’s shift toward electric vehicles, while minimizing impact on ordinary users.
Justice Kant said such a ban would hit only an affluent minority. He noted that large, premium EVs are now available. These EVs could serve as viable substitutes for VIPs, corporate users, and luxury buyers.
Why Luxury First?
The court believes starting with luxury vehicles is a sensible pilot for a broader ICE phase-out. According to the judges, it’s a way to make a bold policy move without disrupting the mass market.
By targeting just the top tier of ICE car ownership, the court argues it would set a strong precedent, one that could eventually lead to wider restrictions.
How the government reacted
Attorney General R. Venkataramani, appearing for the Centre, said the government is not opposed to the idea. He added that 13 ministries are already coordinating on EV policy, including charging infrastructure and fleet electrification.
The court has asked the government to file a detailed report about its EV plans. This includes current notifications, progress, and how various ministries are contributing.
What’s driving the court’s push
This proposal comes in response to a public-interest petition that argues the government has not effectively implemented its EV policy. Petitioners say the lack of charging stations and weak policy follow-through are major roadblocks.
Justice Kant also raised a point about infrastructure: as EV adoption grows, electric charging points will naturally follow. He suggested that existing petrol stations could be converted to accommodate EV charging.
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