N. RAVEENDRAN Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) At the crux of all the assertions and averments in this writ petition, the petitioner - who is stated to be a public interest litigant - draws our attention to the allegation that the most valuable assets of the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) are being wasted away on account of negligence and insouciance.

(2.) Though there are various other imputations made in this writ petition, prima facie, we are of the view that the focus must be on the fact that several buses of the KSRTC- running into hundreds- are stated to be now maintained in a state of waste and disrepair. This is sought to be shown through Exts.P2 to P5 photographs.

(3.) Of course, we would require more inputs before we conclude affirmatively. As matters now stand, it is common knowledge - as is also admitted by Sri.Deepu Thankan, learned Standing Counsel for the KSRTC - that the Corporation is going through great financial crisis, reaching a stage where the salary and other benefits of the employees have been delayed. We are also told by Sri.Santhoshkumar, learned Special Government Pleader, that the State chips in with help and assistance, including monetary, as and when it is required; but that he does not have instructions as to the specific nature of the allegations in this writ petition.