Bombay High Court Questions Reduced Cricket Security Charges

The Bombay High Court is scrutinizing the Maharashtra government's decision to retrospectively lower police protection fees for cricket matches. This decision, challenged by activist Anil Galgali, may cost the state Rs 15 crore. The court expressed concerns over the move, scheduling further hearings for December.

The Bombay High Court has expressed dissatisfaction with the Maharashtra government's decision to retroactively reduce police protection fees for cricket matches, a move that could financially impact the state by over Rs 15 crore.

This decision is under legal scrutiny following a public interest litigation filed by RTI activist Anil Galgali, who challenges the legality of the retrospective fee waiver. During a recent court session, Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar sought a clear justification for the decision, pointing out inconsistencies in the state's rationale.

The court has scheduled additional hearings on December 17 and has directed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) to respond to the petition. The plea calls for the annulment of a June 2023 circular that dismissed arrears owed by MCA, insisting the police recover Rs 14.82 crore from past matches.

(With inputs from agencies.)