On Monday, the Supreme Court denied a petition seeking to make Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birthday (January 23) a national holiday every year.
A bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud observed that the requested relief clearly fell within the purview of executive policy and that hearing such a case would be unjustified.
During the hearing, the bench stated right away that the Supreme Court cannot issue the requested directions because it is against government policy.
The petitioner stated in person that Bose’s contribution is not recognised.
The petitioner was advised by the CJI that the best way to honour Bose’s contribution was to work as hard as he did.
“Best way you can recognise his contribution is to work hard, like he worked hard for freedom. Not by adding to the holidays. That is a matter for the government to decide. We won’t advise the government one way or the other,” According to the CJI.
The petitioner also suggested that the government construct a memorial hall and museum to honour Bose and raise the national flag on August 15 and January 26 each year.
While the petitioner argued that honouring Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose for his selfless service to India’s independence is appropriate, the bench denied the request, stating that this is a matter for the Government of India to decide.