SC dismisses plea to restore concession in rail tickets for senior citizens

The Supreme Court in the case MK Balakrishnan vs Union of India in the case observed and has rejected the plea moved seeking the restoration of concession in Railway ticket prices for senior citizens.

The bench comprising of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah in the case observed while considering the aforesaid reasons and the matter involving a fiscal issue, the same would not be appreciated by this court to issue a writ seeking under Article 32 of the Constitution of the nature of the petitioner, the court dismissed the plea with the aforesaid directions, while keeping in mind the needs of the senior citizens and also the fiscal repercussions.

It has also been argued by the person during the hearing that concession was being withdrawn during the Covid-19 period. Therefore, the government has an obligation to restore it, being a welfare state.

The petitioner in the plea argued that the Senior citizens in our country constitute 10% of the population. Thus, the concession was being withdrawn, with the advent of COVID-19. Therefore, around the world, senior citizens are given many concessions and other benefits. It has also been orally remarked by the bench that this court agrees with you but what to do? These being the aspects of the State Policy. This court may feel that concession should be granted. Can this Court issue mandamus stating that concession must be granted? This being the issue.

The court in the case while relying upon the Article 21 of the Constitution Article 21 of the Constitution, Right to life and personal liberty, argued before the court that the provision has a wide meaning which guarantees several rights to the elder. Therefore, there being no need to continuously monitor these rights.

Further, the bench in the case stated after it has been revealed by the petitioner that he had filled a representation with the Railways that this court will direct that the decisions need to be taken pursuant to your letter.

The court in the case also noted that the Ministry of Railways had replied to the representation of the petitioners on January 12, wherein informing the nonviability of reinstating the conceded ticket rates which prompted the Court to dismiss the petition filed.

Accordingly, the court dismissed the plea.