After Supreme Court's Criticism, Andhra Pradesh Govt Agrees To Revert Rs.1100 Crores To State Disaster Relief Fund

On the last date of hearing, a Bench comprising Justices M.R. Shah and B.V. Nagarathna had indicated that money from the SDRF cannot be diverted or used for any other purpose and it would be proper to revert the diverted amount to the SDRF. In view of the same Senior Advocate, Mr. R. Basant appearing on behalf of the State sought time to seek instructions in this regard. On Monday, he submitted that the State would transfer the money from the PD account to SDRF, as had been suggested by the Bench on the last occasion, within a period of two weeks.

While recording the order, the Bench also clarified that the money so reverted, if required, can be used for the payment of COVID-19 compensation.

"The said amount be dealt with and utilized as per Disaster Management Act…It may be used for payment of compensation for COVID-19 victims."

In respect to the additional affidavit filed by Mr. Bansal pertaining to the grievances of four claimants who have not been paid COVID-19 compensation, Mr. Basant informed the Bench that as on the date of hearing, the payment has been made. Accordingly the Bench recorded -

"So far as the four persons named in the additional affidavit are concerned Mr. Basant has stated at the Bar that all four have been paid compensation by now."

[Case Title: Gaurav Bansal Vs UOI]