Punjab Files Application In Supreme Court Seeking Release Of Funds From Union Govt

The State of Punjab has filed an application seeking urgent release of funds from the Union under the alleged dues of Market Fees and Rural Development Fees (RDF). 

Punjab Additional Advocate General Shadan Farasat requested CJI DY Chandrachud for an early listing of the interim application seeking release of funds from the Union. 

"We are only requesting if the IA(Interlocutory Application) may be listed next week if possible. There is an urgent need of funds. If in August it will be possible" 

The Court agreed to list the matter for an early hearing.  The application has been filed in the original suit filed by the State against the Union last year.

Last year, the Punjab Government moved the Top Court alleging the Union of India's refusal of the reimbursement of the statutory charges RDF.

As per the original suit filed before the Apex Court, the charges levied by the State of Punjab are for the acquisition and procurement of food grains carried out by the Punjab on behalf of the Union, for ensuring food security in India.

It is stated that RDF to the tune of Rs 3637 crores is due from 2021 and market fees to the tune of Rs 2400 crores is due from 2022.