By Kavita Mistry 
In a strong push for India’s green mobility transition, the Supreme Court on Thursday suggested that phasing out luxury petrol and diesel cars could be an effective starting point for implementing the Centre’s Electric Vehicle (EV) promotion plans. The court said targeting high-end vehicles would not impact the common public while sending a powerful message about India’s environmental priorities.
‘Start with the Rich, Not the Common Man’
A bench led by Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi made the remarks while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking stronger implementation of EV promotion schemes.
Justice Kant noted, “Now in electric vehicles also, there are very good bigger cars introduced in the market which can be as convenient as the other gas guzzlers… Just think of imposing a ban on the very high-end vehicles first. It will not affect the common man because only a small part of the Indian population can afford them.”
The court’s observation suggests a top-down approach, beginning with replacing luxury petrol and diesel cars—typically used by VIPs and corporate elites—with electric alternatives.
Centre Supports the Proposal
Attorney General R. Venkataramani, representing the Centre, informed the court that the government supports the idea and is already working on it. He said 13 ministries are actively coordinating to promote EV adoption, signalling a multi-ministerial strategy to push clean mobility.
The Attorney General also assured the bench that the government would file a comprehensive report on current policies and notifications promoting EV usage.
Infrastructure Challenges Remain
Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the Centre for Public Interest Litigation, said that while EV prices have fallen due to incentives, charging infrastructure remains inadequate. The bench acknowledged this concern but stated that market demand will drive infrastructure growth, observing that as EV adoption increases, charging stations will expand organically, including at existing petrol pumps.
The court also hinted that the current EV policy may require a review to address gaps in infrastructure and accessibility.
What’s Next
The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to file a detailed report within four weeks, after which the matter will be heard again. The suggestion to first phase out luxury petrol and diesel cars may serve as a template for gradual nationwide implementation, balancing environmental goals with public affordability.