"We will go by the order dated August 24, 2011 and will deal with that limited issue (of CAG audit) first," a bench of justices Pradeep Nandrajog and Jayant Nath said and fixed the PIL filed in 2011 by NGO United RWAs Joint Action (URJA) for hearing on March 20.
Besides seeking a CAG audit into the accounts of BSES Rajdhani Power Ltd, BSES Yamuna Power Ltd of Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group and Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd, the NGO had also sought a CBI or an independent probe into alleged irregularities committed by the discoms.
The High Court had, on August 24, 2011, said, "...The issue that requires to be dwelt upon and addressed to is the jurisdiction of the CAG in respect of the said companies. It is further canvassed by them the same has to be tested on the anvil of the Constitution of India and the CAG Act, 1971.
"That apart, it is urged by them (discoms) once there has been a privatization of the electricity companies, they are not covered by the aforesaid Act. Issue notice on the question of admission.
During the hearing, Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the NGO, today said "this a very important public issue and this needs to be settled."
"Of course, we will settle it for you," the bench said and inquired about the status of the appeals filed by discoms against a single judge bench order refusing to stay Aam Aadmi Party-led government's decision asking CAG to audit their accounts.
The appeals were listed before another bench, Bhushan said.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
